Category: Politics

Forum backs Soludo on minimum wage for elected officials

Wage

By Adekunle Williams

Lagos, June 17, 2024 (NAN) The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum says it supports the statement by  Gov. Charles Soludo of Anambra that governors and other elected officials should earn only the minimum wage given  the country’s current economic realities .

The National President of the forum, Alhaji Shettima Yerima, said this in an interview  with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday  in Lagos.

NAN reports that Soludo had,while reacting to the rejection of the proposed  N62 ,000 minimum wage by the Nigeria Governor’s Forum,said governors and other elected officials too should earn  minimum wage to have a  feel what workers are going through in the face of economic challenges.

” Let’s come clean and straight with Nigerians. Nigeria is very poor and broke, but the lifestyle of government and government officials does not show it, especially with the obscene flamboyance in public display,

“The poor are hungry and impatient, let us not annoy them more with our insensitivity. In this case, I agree with Reverend Father Mbaka, who said elected governors should also earn minimum wage. I agree that we should be paid that so that we can feel that as well.”,Soludo had said .

Yerima told NAN that in a country where the disparity between the earnings of political leaders and the average citizen is staggering, such a stance is not only refreshing but also necessary in fostering a more equitable society.

He said: “The statement made by Gov. Charles Soludo of Anambra, regarding the need for governors and other elected officials to earn only the minimum wage in order to reflect the current economic reality of Nigeria is both bold and commendable.

“For too long, Nigeria has been plagued by corruption and a lack of accountability among its political class. Elected officials often receive exorbitant salaries and allowances while the majority of the population struggles to make ends meet.

“This imbalance not only breeds resentment among the populace but also perpetuates a culture of entitlement among those in power.

“By advocating for governors and other elected officials to earn only the minimum wage, the governor is sending a strong message that public service should not be about personal enrichment but  about working towards the common good.”he said.

Yerima said that Soludo’s statement  should be lauded and supported by all Nigerians, who ,he said ,were tired of the excesses and opulence of their leaders while the country continues to face  challenges.

The forum ‘s president said it was improper for leaders not to identify with the people  in the face of  widespread poverty, inadequate infrastructure and a struggling healthcare system.

According to him, elected officials should be  willing to make sacrifices and tighten their belts in solidarity with the people they serve .

“There is the nerd  for elected officials to be in touch with the realities faced by the average Nigerian, as it is only through shared experiences and empathy that true change can be achieved.

“The call is a step in the right direction towards creating a more just and equitable society.

“His bold stance should be supportjed and emulated by leaders at all levels of government, as it signifies a commitment to serving the people rather than exploiting their positions for personal gain.

“As Nigerians, we must demand accountability and integrity from our political leaders,” he said.

(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

WAC/BHB

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Elections

By Olubukola Aiyedogbon

Ilorin, June 17, 2014 (NAN) The Kwara Independent Electoral Commission (KWSIEC), says political party primaries for the state’s local government elections will be held from June 24 to 30.

The Chairman of the electoral body, Muhammed Okanla disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Ilorin.

Okanla said that the conduct of elections for the offices of chairmen and councillors across the 16 local government areas of the state would take place on Sept. 21.

He said that based on the elections timetable, a meeting or interface with the leadership of all the registered political parties would be held on June 21.

He added that political parties were expected to obtain and return nomination forms KWSIEC 01 and KWSIEC 02 for the chairmanship and councillorship elections from July 1 to July 5.

The chairman also said that the verification of candidates’ credentials would be held from July 8 to July 19.

He said that the display of names of candidates nominated by political parties would be posted on the KWSIEC notice board from July 22 to July 26.

He also said that the training of ad-hoc staff for the elections in all the three Senatorial Districts would be held between July 27 and July 31.

Okanla said that the political parties have up to Aug. 5 to withdraw a candidate if need be, while Aug. 6 would be the last day for the publication of the list of nominated candidates.

According to him, political parties’ campaigns will commence on Aug. 19 and end at midnight of on Sept. 19.

“Elections for chairmanship and councillorship positions will be conducted on Sept. 21, while Certificate of Returns will be issued on Sept. 23,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OJB/FDY

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Edited by Philip Yatai

Governorship candidate urges respect for fathers’ contributions to society

Fathers

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The governorship candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Edo, Patience Ndidi, has sought respect for the vital contributions of fathers to the development of a better society.

Ndidi, known as Uwagboe, in a statement to mark father’s day, acknowledged the strength, love, and guidance that fathers bring into families.

She described fathers as first heroes, steadfast protectors, most impactful teachers, who shape societal values, instill discipline, and prepare their wards to face the world with courage and integrity.

According to her, fatherhood is a profound responsibility filled with challenges but also immeasurable rewards.

“To all the fathers, who have been working tirelessly to support and nurture their families, know that your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.

“Your dedication builds the foundation of our communities and strengthens the fabric of our society.

“Today, we celebrate your unwavering commitment and the critical role you play in our lives,” she said.

Ndidi also emphasised the need to acknowledge and support those who take on the paternal role of guiding the next generation like stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, mentors, and educators.

“Your influence helps to mold resilient and compassionate individuals who will lead our future.

“On this special day, I encourage all of us to reflect on the lessons and love we have received from the fathers in our lives.

“Let us strive to uphold these values and continue building a society that appreciates and respects the vital contributions of all fathers,” she said.

Nididi expressed her commitment to support policies that empowered families, enhance child welfare, and provide economic opportunities that would uplift every father and family in Edo.

Ndidi, who said that the strength and love from fathers have continue to inspire all, also pledged to work with all to build a brighter, more inclusive future in Edo.

“In this year’s governorship race, I stand as the only female among 17 candidates, a testament to our evolving society where every voice is needed and valued.

“I am here to build on the strong foundation laid by our fathers and to add new perspectives and ideas to our governance.

“The leadership and resilience shown by our men through decades have been instrumental, but today, I offer a vision of inclusive and sustainable progress for Edo.

“Together, we can embrace a future where leadership transcends gender and where our collective efforts lead to greater prosperity for all.

“This Father’s Day, let us celebrate not only what has been accomplished but also what we can achieve together.

“With a woman on the ballot, we bring a fresh and enriching perspective to the enduring work of our beloved fathers,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

OBE/AMM
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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Sacrifice

By Adeyemi Adeleye/Oluwatope Lawanson
Lagos, June 16, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu on Sunday said Nigeria needed sacrificing citizens to fulfill the dreams of its founding fathers.

Tinubu made the remark while addressing newsmen after observing the 2024 Eid-el Adha prayers at Dodan Barracks, Lagos.

The President emphasised the need for the people to follow the path of sacrifice to make the nation great.

“Being a very good citizen comes with responsibility, As citizens, what do you do to be a very committed member of our society? Go and sacrifice. Love your country, love your neighbours, share what you have with one another and be thankful to Almighty God. That’s all,” said the President.

Earlier, while addressing the worshippers, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, harped on perseverance and patience.

Hamzat enjoined the Muslim faithful to understand the reason for Eid, which he described as sacrifice and endurance.

He appealed to Nigerians to sustain the peace in the country and do what is right for themselves and their neighbours.

“I urge you all to live in peace and harmony. Be patient and persevere in order to enjoy the good of the land.

“Also, let us be good Muslims and good citizens of Nigeria. This is what almighty Allah expects of us.

“I pray that we continue to celebrate in one peace and that Nigeria continues to progress,” he said.

Delivering the Eid-el-Adha message, Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Suleiman Abou-Nolla, who made reference to the Qur’an chapter 3 verse 102, said all believers should fear God as He should be feared.

He said all believers must not die except as a Muslim in total submission to Allah.

Abou-Nolla said all the prophets of God sent to mankind with their messages from Adam to Noah, to Ibrahim, Issah and Mohammed (S.A.W.) came with the message of sacrifice.

According to him, it is all about service to their God and humanity.

He recalled that former Nigerian leaders from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Ahmadu Bello, Nnamdi Azikwe, Obafemi Awolowo, MKO Abiola, Madam Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti and others sacrificed their knowledge, wealth, sweat that led to the growth and development of the country.

“All their activities and actions were passionate and geared toward nation-building; we must, therefore, ensure that their labour and struggles are not in vain.

“It is, therefore, incumbent on us to follow their footsteps in ensuring that this nation, Nigeria, continues to grow in leaps and bounds.

“We are also to note that Allah forbids any act of tribalism, terrorism, and hatred among his servants but loves cooperation, unity, compassion, stability, justice and righteousness.

“As we celebrate Eid-el-Adha, let us shun all acts of indiscipline, hate speech, and violence to ensure peaceful co-existence and progress of our nation Nigeria,” the Imam said.

He prayed to God to forgive Nigeria’s sins, asking God to send peace to every part of the country.

“We seek your blessings and economic prosperity of our land, open the doors of opportunities and success to all sectors of our economy,” he said.

Praying for the President, Imam, who noted that Tinubu had the heart and passion for the people, asked God to grant him wisdom, strength and good health to govern the country well.

“Surround him (Tinubu) with sound and wise counsel to navigate our country through all the challenges we are currently facing,” he prayed.

He also offered prayers to God for Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Hamzat, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu and all those in authority for guidance and wisdom to lead Nigeria to a great future.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that several other dignitaries observed their Eid el-adha prayers at the venue.

Others are: Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, Principal Private Secretary Hakeem Muri-Okunola, former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, Speaker Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, Sen. Gbenga Ashafa. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

AYO/LAW/SA

Edited by Salif Atojoko

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Group urges NASS to save Rivers from anarchy

Anarchy
By Precious Akutamadu
Port Harcourt, June 16, 2024 (NAN) A civil society organisation, called the Vanguard for Transparent Leadership and Democracy, has called on the National Assembly (NASS) to wade into the crisis in Rivers to save the state from anarchy.

The group made the call while speaking on the lingering executive-legislature feud in the state during an interactive session with newsmen in Port Harcourt.

The group’s National President, Mr Igbini Emmanuel, charged NASS to “urgently invoke the ‘Doctrine of Necessity’ to save Rivers from a complete breakdown of law and order”.

Emmanuel said that the group was worried about what would happen, when the three-year tenure of the 23 Local Government Councils would end on June 17.

He said that already, the political tension in the state had heightened between the supporters of Gov. Siminalaye Fubara and his estranged political godfather, Chief Nyesom Wike.

According to hom, the tension, if not urgently and decisively addressed, would pose serious threat to peace and complete breakdown of law and public order across the state.

“It is sadly an undeniable fact that the state is right now facing grave and imminent danger with both opposing political groups gearing for full blown war on June 17 and days after, the takeover and control of the administration of the
Local Government councils,” he said.

Emmanuel said that with the conflicting court judgments and pending suits, relating to the lawful members and leadership of the state Assembly, there existed no legislative organ to make laws for peace, order and good governance of the state as stipulated by Section 4(6) of the Constitution.

“We are all aware that the majority of the incumbent chairmen of the LG councils have publicly vowed never to exit their positions on June 17, 2024 on the ground that the House of Assembly, led by  Martin Amaewhule, had amended the state LG law mandating the chairmen to continue on their positions, if the council election was not conducted,” Emmanuel said.

He argued that the above scenario “clearly establishes the undeniable fact that Rivers is facing grave and actual danger”.

He feared that the peace, security and wellbeing of the people of Rivers may not be guaranteed, if urgent steps were not taken to arrest the situation.

The group therefore implored NASS “to immediately invoke the doctrine of necessity in Rivers, with a view to preventing the impending breakdown of law and order until such a time the state Assembly was able to resume its functions”.

It further argued that “by the express provisions of sections 4 and 11(4) of the Constitution, NASS “has the Constitutional power to make laws for the peace, order, good government of the federation or any part thereof and for any state at any time the House of Assembly is unable to perform its functions by reason of the situation prevailing in that state”.

The group called for the setting up of a five-member Interim Management Committee, made up of men and women drawn from the academia, judiciary, religious groups, including professional bodies and non-governmental organisations, for each council.

It recommended that members of the committee “must be indigenes of the respective local government areas, who are not members of any political party and not known to be supporters or close associates of the governor or his predecessor”.

The group also recommended that the committee should administer the councils for not more than three months during which local government elections should be conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

PA/USO
Edited by Sam Oditah

Labour

By Femi Ogunshola

Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage has given reasons why the organised labour should have a rethink on the amount it is demanding as minimum wage.

Alhaji Goni Aji,  the chairman of the committee said this in Abuja on Sunday.

The organised labour is demanding for N250, 000 as minimum wage per month.

But the Federal Government and Organised Private Sector have offered N62,000 per month.

Goni said that the labour should reconsider its stance based on economic considerations and non-monetary incentives which the Federal Government had so far provided for workers.

He listed such incentives to include the N35,000 wage award for all treasury-paid federal workers, N100 billion for the procurement of gas fuelled busses and conversion to gas kits.

Others include the N125 billion conditional grant, financial inclusion to small and medium scale enterprises and the N25,000 each to be shared to 15 million households for three months, according to him.

He also cited the N185 billion palliatives loans to states to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal and the N200 billion to support the cultivation of hectares of land to boost food production.

He said that here was another N75 billion to strengthen the manufacturing sector and N1 trillion for student loans for higher education.

He explained that the release of 42,000 metric tonnes of grains from strategic reserves and the purchase and onward distribution of 60,000 metric tonnes of rice to the millers association.

Goni  stated that the recent salary increase of 25 per cent and 35 per cent on all consolidated salary structures for federal workers and the 90 per cent subsidy on health costs for federal civil servants registered on health insurance programme.

All these, he said should be considered by the labour unions and accept the N62, 000 being offered by the Federal Government.

He said that the light rail commissioned in Abuja was  to relieve transportation cost until the end of the year was a landmark achievements that would cushion the effect of fuel subsidy.

He said in addition to the freedom of civil servants to engage in agriculture, the Federal Government has approved the inclusion of ICT services for alternate sources of income.

He said the committee agreed that where major and small businesses were closing down with consequent loss of jobs, the outcome of a new minimum wage should be such that it would not trigger further massive job losses.

He further said that linking the strike to electricity hikes with the wage determination was not fair to the negotiating parties.(NAN)(www. nannews. ng)

ODF/JAN/KAY

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Edited by Joan Nwagwu/Kayode Olaitan

Eid-el-Kabir: Atiku preaches sacrifice, love, peace

Celebration

By Emmanuel and

Abuja, June 15, 2024 (NAN) Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of this year Eid-el-Kabir  to demonstrate sacrifice, love and peace.

Abubakar in a statement by his media office on Saturday in Abuja, congratulated fellow Muslim faithful on the celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir festival.

He said that the celebration of Eid, as stated in the scriptures, was not merely a fanfare but an admonition to the people to have forbearance and show compassion in every situation.

“The message of Eid al-Adha is to remind ourselves about the commandment of God to show love to one another and uphold peaceful interpersonal relationships.

“The essential purpose of that message is that we must put our trust in God almighty at all times.

“Even in the face of current hard times that many Nigerians are passing through, we must never fail to put trust in God and, more importantly, extend compassion and safety to the vulnerable people around us.

“This means that as we go about celebrating today, we must ensure that we extend good tidings of support and charity to one another, especially those in difficulties,”he said.

The former vice president called on governments at all levels to be deliberate in initiating measures that will ease the hardship confronting Nigerians .

“As we know that the essence of the celebration today is about a restoration of God’s mercy, it is thus incumbent on government at all levels to take a cue from the divine instruction,” he said.

He  reminded Muslims in Nigeria and across the world to remember their responsibility of being good ambassadors of the religion by living their lives according to the practices and teachings of the noble Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

“The festivities that we are undertaking today is borne out of the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim and as also exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

“ It is thus our responsibility as Muslims to reflect on their examples in our lives by upholding the threshold of peace at all times, “AbubKar also added.

He wished every Muslim family a happy Eid celebration and prayed for God’s protection and safety for everyone during and after the celebration.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

OBE/JPE

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Edited  by Joseph Edeh

Eid el-Adha: Lagos APC, PDP greet Muslims, preach peace, love

Greetings
By Adeyemi Adeleye
Lagos, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Lagos State chapters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have congratulated Muslim faithful on this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The political parties in separate goodwill messages on Saturday implored Nigerians and residents of the state to remember the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim.

On his part, the Chairman of APC in the state, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi admonished Muslim faithful in the country to learn to keep promises and love their neighbours.

Ojelabi advised Muslims to always stand firm in defence of their beliefs and promises, noting that this was what made Prophet Ibrahim stood out as a righteous man.

The APC chairman, who feted some Muslim leaders in Lagos, advised them to always live peacefully with their fellow citizens to enshrine peace and love in the country.

He said: “Your sacrifice should always be charity to the poor, good deeds and submission to the Almighty Allah. It is my prayer that Allah (SWT) will accept your Ibada.

“Let me enjoin you to continue to be your brother’s keeper and promote unity always and continue to live in harmony with one another in fulfilment of Allah’s teachings and the lessons of the Holy Prophet Muhammed (S.A.W).”

Ojelabi appealed to them to remember the less privileged, the poor during the celebration and allow the fear of Allah to guide them in all their conducts.

Ojelabi added: “I want to encourage you to devote more time to pray for our state, Lagos, the nation and all our leaders at all levels, that God should lead them right in their service to the people.”

Similarly, the Lagos State PDP Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Hakeem Amode, said that the Eid-el- Kabir celebration called for reflection on what binds Nigerians together.

According to him, these include the need to show love, compassion, and support for one another.

“The Islamic religion preaches togetherness and the value of communal living,” he said.

Amode said that no doubt, Nigerians were passing through a challenging period economically, “but as a party, the PDP believes that the best is yet to come for the state.”

According to him, the festive season is an auspicious time for all of us to renew our hope as a people and to continue to trust the Almighty Allah for all that we require.

He said that the PDP would continue to identify with the people of the state.

“We want to praise the endurance of our people, who have continued to expect a better tomorrow.

“We encourage the residents of Lagos State to continue to support our party. Rest assured that we are with you in this trying period,” Amode said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

AYO/IKU
Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

Movement

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, June 15, 2024(NAN)Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu has urged the re-constituted executives of OUK Movement, Abia’s largest socio-political ideological group, to intensify efforts at accomplishing the political goals of the group.

A statement from Kalu’s media office said he made the call on Saturday at his Igbere country home, where he inaugurated the newly reconstituted executives of the group.

Kalu, who expressed his disappointment over outcome of the 2023 elections in the state, urged the new leadership to redouble  mobilisation efforts at their various wards and local government areas to improve their fortunes in 2027.

According to Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District under the platform of the All Progressives Congress,  only members who improve on their wards in favour of the party will have extra benefits.

He urged them to remain united and resist financial inducements.

Kalu also urged the group’s executive in Abia South and Central senatorial districts to emulate the executive of Abia North by deepening their grassroots mobilisation.

He urged them to prioritise their needs and give one another the necessary support needed for growth, given some challenges experienced in some local government areas.

Kalu assured them of total commitment and support to achieve the desired goals of the group for the general good of the APC.

The State Chairman of the group, Mr Ojisi Ogbaja, appreciated Kalu for his commitment in supporting the group.

He said the group had continued to witness influx of new members while announcing new strategies implemented by the group to bring better results.

According to him, the state leadership has decided to expand the leadership at the ward level to 57 to improve its grassroots strength.

“Put in your best because we need to win at all times; our target is to capture the political power of all the positions in the state.

“We have visited your wards without your knowledge to see what you are doing; we have 17 chairmen at the local government area and three zonal chairmen and five executives at the state level.

“At the ward level we have 27 executives and another 30 leaders to make it 57.

“We decided it is better to decongest the top and populate the grassroots because that is where the politics lies.

“Spreading is very important; the local government areas leaders must be liberal enough to spread the offices.

“Put yourself in the shoe of the person financing the group; every local government area also have a file opened at the state party headquarters,” he said(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

KC/CHOM/CJ/

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma and  Chijioke Okoronkwo