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  • Fintiri pledges commitment to more dividends of democracy, security

    Fintiri pledges commitment to more dividends of democracy, security

    Democracy

    By Ibrahim Kado

    Yola, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa has reaffirmed commitment to providing more  necessary infrastructure for sustainable development and to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.

    Fintiri stated this in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Humwashi Wonosikou, in Yola on Tuesday.

    “I rejoice with the people of Adamawa  and all Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day, June 12.

    “As we mark this year’s democracy day, I acknowledge the hardships and challenges that many Nigerians are still facing.

    “And I regret that our democracy has not yet yielded the desired dividends of comfort, security and prosperity for all citizens”, he said.

    He urged residents to sustain the hard-earned peace his  administration has built over the last five years.

    Fintiri warned that anyone found wanting would  face the full wrath of the Law.

    He prayed for continued peace and prosperity in Adamawa  and Nigeria, as the nation marched forward in its democratic journey.

    “I commend the resilience and determination of Nigerians in upholding democratic values and principles.

    “May I also acknowledge the progress made in the past two decades and pledge my administration’s commitment to deepening democracy and improving the lives of citizens,” he said.

    The governor urged all Adamawa residents to embrace peace, unity, and harmony for the progress of the state.

    According to him, his administration will continue to prioritise projects that improve the lives of people and guarantee the protection of lives and property in the state (NAN) (www.nannees.ng)
    IMK/OJI/YGA

    Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Gabriel Yough

     

     

  • Soludo signs bill to conduct LG election, 10 others into law

     

     

    Bills

    By Lucy Osuizigbo-Okechukwu

    Awka, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra  on Wednesday signed the  state’s Electoral bill for the conduct of the Local Government election in the state and 10 other bills into Law.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the bills include the Anambra State Electoral Law 2024, Touting Prohibition Law 2024, Secret Cult and Similar Activities Prohibition Law, 2024 and Health Facilities and Accreditation Agency Law, 2024.

    It also include the Peace Building and Conflict Management Agency, the Anambra State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission Law, 2024, Market Safety and Protection Law 2024 and Trafficking in Person Prohibition Law 2024.

    Others are the Anambra State Private Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery Law 2024, Amended Anambra State House of Assembly Service Commission Law 2021 and Revenue Administration (Consolidand Harmonisation) Law 2024.

    Soludo said the laws which would strengthen governance in the state should be obeyed to avoid prosecution.

    On the state Electoral Law, he said it would lay the foundation for organising and conducting Local Government Area  election in the state.

    According to him, the extant law his administration met was rickety, and there is  need to make a law that is in tune with the times.

    “We will subsequently set up the electoral commission and when they are done, they will announce the date and time for the local government election. This is a promise made and a promise kept.

    “We have not had local government election in more than 10 years. The infrastructure and basic institutions will be strengthened to have a credible election.

    “I’m excited that we are moving forward to have this foundation. The goal is to reform the local government system to make it viable for new administrations,” he said.

    He appreciated the Speaker, Dr Somtochukwu Udeze and other legislators for living up to their patriotic duty for the good of the people.

    “This assembly is one of the most hardworking and productive in Nigeria. Enacting the laws shows that they are responsive to the needs of the people, ” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    LCO/CHOM/MNA

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    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Maureen Atuonwu

     

     

     

     

  • Democracy Day: LG boss pledges fair, inclusive administration 

    Democracy Day: LG boss pledges fair, inclusive administration

    Democracy

    By Nathan Nwakamma

    Yenagoa, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Sole Administrator of Ideato North Local Government Area in Imo, Hon Chidubem Ozigbo, has pledged to run a fair and inclusive administration.

    Ozigbo made the pledge on Wednesday, in a goodwill message to commemorate the 2024 Democracy Day.

    He said that his administration would prioritize the principles of democracy, ensuring that every decision and action taken would be in the best interest of the community.

    “Democracy Day is a momentous day in our nation’s history. It serves as a reminder of our collective struggle, resilience, and the enduring spirit of our people to uphold the principles of democracy.

    “It is a day to celebrate the freedom, rights, and responsibilities that democracy bestows upon us.

    “As I step into the role of Sole Administrator, I am deeply humbled and honoured by the trust and confidence placed in me by the Imo State Governor, Distinguished Sen Hope Uzodimma, and love shown to me by people,” Ozigbo stated.

    He pledged to uphold the values of fairness, justice, and inclusiveness in all endeavours, adding that together, he would work towards building a prosperous, peaceful, and united Ideato North.

    He urged the people to remain steadfast in their commitment to the democratic ideals and to actively participate in the governance process.

    “Let us use this Democracy Day as an opportunity to reflect on our achievements and to renew our dedication to the progress and development of Ideato North.

    “By working together, we can overcome any challenges and create a brighter future for our children and generations to come.

    “May this Democracy Day bring us renewed hope and inspire us to strive for excellence in all our undertakings.

    “Happy Democracy Day!!!! Ideato North!,’ Ozigbo said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    NN/IAA

    =======

    Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

  • Sani seeks strengthening of democracy, poverty alleviation, food security initiatives

    Sani  seeks strengthening of democracy, poverty alleviation, food security initiatives
    Democracy
    By Hussaina Yakubu
    Kaduna, June 12, 2024 (NAN)  Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has called for the strengthening of democracy through initiatives focused on poverty alleviation and food security.
    In his Democracy Day message, Sani paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria.
    He honoured notable figures such as the late MKO Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani, and other pro-democracy, human rights, and labour activists who gallantly fought against military rule.
    “The Nigerian people deserve accolades for embracing democracy and defending it with their blood and sweat.
    ”In spite of some imperfections, democracy remains the best system of government,” he said.
    Sani emphasized that democracy must be nurtured to thrive and endure, urging political actors to shun anti-democratic tendencies and commit to promoting democratic culture and citizenship.
    He underscored the need for Nigeria to strengthen institutions that promote and protect democracy.
     The governor also stressed that democracy would only be meaningful if issues of poverty, unemployment, and food security were addressed.
    Sani stated that since the inception of his administration in May 2023, his government has been ‘pro-people and development-centered.’
     He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the poor, vulnerable, and the under-served in the state.
    “We are revitalizing education to ensure accessible, affordable, and quality education for children of the underprivileged in Kaduna State,” he said.
     Additionally, Sani listed efforts made to boost agriculture like providing agricultural inputs and equipment to smallholder farmers and small-scale agro-processors.
    He also said they included stimulating the economy by supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises and implementing a Rural Transformation Drive.
    According to him, all these efforts were aimed at revitalizing the rural economies, fighting poverty and bridging the rural-urban divide.
    Sani added, “Our administration is bringing development closer to the people. In all we do, we consult with the people, get their inputs, and incorporate them into our policies, programmes, and projects.
    “As we celebrate June 12, our Democracy Day, let us remember that sovereignty belongs to the people.”
    He also said the people must be at the centre of all  political calculations and development efforts.
    Sani said, ”If we push the people to the background, we imperil our democracy.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
     HUM/BRM
    ============
    Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

  • 4 dead in auto crash on Enugu-Onitsha Expressway

    Accident

    By Stanley Nwanosike

    Enugu, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says no fewer than four persons lost their lives in a ghastly auto accident on Ugwu Onyeama axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Federal  Highway.

    The Sector Commander of the FRSC Enugu State Command, Mr Adeyemi Sokunbi, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Enugu.

    Sokunbi said that the accident happened between 6:45p.m. and 7p.m. on June 11 when a trailer ladened with kerosene lost control and rammed into six other vehicles.

    He said that two persons died instantly among the 29 persons involved in the ghastly accident while two others died at the hospital.

    Sokunbi said that the FRSC used the corps’ Intensive Care Unit (ICU) ambulance and other vehicles to rush the 10 persons, who were injured to the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu.

    He also said that the deceased were taken to the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUT) Park Lane, Enugu where they were deposited at the morgue.

    The commander said that some items belonging to the victims were also recovered at the scene of the accident.

    According to him, the kerosene-laden truck lost its his break and rammed into six other vehicles, which included cars and a bus on the reconstructed section of the Enugu-Onitsha Federal Highway.

    He said: “We are thanking God that the truck that failed break was not conveying petrol, which is extremely inflammable.

    “Motorists and all road users in general, have to be very careful on the road.

    “We advise that all should put their vehicle in order and at an optimal condition before setting out on journeys.

    “You cannot afford to put a mechanically deficient vehicle on the road to cause harm to many others using the same road,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    KSN/MNA

    Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

    ===========

  • Democracy Day: CDS assures Nigerians of victory against insecurity

    Security

    By Sumaila Ogbaje

    Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa has assured Nigerians of victory against enemies of the state.

    Musa stated this on Wednesday in a goodwill message by the Acting Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on the occasion of the 2024 Democracy Day celebration.

    He reaffirmed the unwavering commitment and loyalty of the Nigeria Armed Forces to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the President, Commander-in-Chief.

    According to him, the armed forces remain dedicated to supporting and strengthening democracy for the benefit of all Nigerians, and will continue to collaborate with national and sub-national institutions to entrench constitutional governance.

    The CDS acknowledged sacrifices made by members of the armed forces in various theatres of operation across the country as well as their commitment to the unity and growth of Nigeria.

    He urges personnel to uphold the tenets of democracy, safeguard citizens’ rights, and ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all.

    Musa also appealed to all Nigerians to remain positive toward the challenges facing the country,  and to support the military in the fight against all acts of terrorism and criminality.

    According to him, victory is insight and wishes President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians a happy and peaceful Democracy Day celebration. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OYS/CHOM/RSA

    ===============

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Rabiu Sani-Ali

  • Democracy: Commissioner, others laud uninterrupted process, suggest reorientation on patriotism

    Democracy: Commissioner, others laud uninterrupted process, suggest reorientation on patriotism

    Democracy

    By Polycarp Auta/Martins Abochol/Zainab Oyekan

    Mr Musa Ashoms, the Commissioner for Information and Communication in Plateau, says periodic elections and smooth change of democratic system have remained top positive sides of Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999.

    Ashoms told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Wednesday in Jos, that the transition from military to civilian rule had been a major achievement for Nigeria in the last 25 years.

    “Nigeria has made significant strides in transitioning from military rule to civilian governance, with regular elections being held since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

    “The country has seen peaceful transitions of power from one civilian government to another, which is a positive sign for democracy,” he said.

    The commissioner however, said that the country had no doubt witnessed some setbacks in the period under review.

    He listed some of the challenges to include electoral malpractices, insecurity and corruption, among others.

    “There are also notable challenges that Nigeria has faced; issues such as political corruption, electoral irregularities, insecurity, and a lack of accountability, have all posed significant threats to the democratic process.

    “These challenges have often impeded the country’s overall democratic development and undermined the trust of the Nigerian people in their government institutions.

    “It is important to acknowledge that building a strong and vibrant democracy is a continuous process that requires commitment, transparency, and active participation from all stakeholders.

    “While Nigeria has made progress in some areas, there is still work to be done to address the systemic issues that hinder the full realisation of a robust democratic system in the country,” he said.

    Ashoms, however, noted that through sustained efforts to strengthen democratic institutions promote the rule of law, fight corruption, and ensure the inclusion of all citizens in the political process, Nigeria could further improve its democratic credentials in the coming years.

    Meanwhile in Jalingo, Dr Yakubu Tor-Agbidye, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said Nigerians would need a total a reorientation towards patriotism.

    Tor-Agbidye, the senatorial candidate of APC in the 2019 election, said that patriotism would address a lot of ills ranging from corruption, indiscipline, adherence to the rule of law, amongst others.

    According to him however, Nigeria has grown, as 25 years of uninterrupted democracy was a landmark in the country’s democratic journey.

    He also called on Nigerians to contribute their quota towards making Nigeria great again, as good governance was not the sole business of the leaders, adding that every citizen had a duty to contribute to good governance and the country’s growth.

    He recommended the strengthening of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and the appointment of right people to sensitise the citizens on values and patriotism.

    “We must thank God for keeping us as one people from independence till date; and we appreciate God for a sustainable democracy for 25 years.

    “It is common knowledge that a child of 25 years attains maturity and therefore, our democracy is a matured one.

    “We need to change our attitude towards governance, and the psychosocial requirement needed is a reorientation towards patriotism.

    “If you are a patriot, you must shun corruption, adhere to the rule of law and have respect for human dignity.

    “We as citizens have our duty to shape governance and not by thinking government should do everything alone.

    “Let us rededicate our vision for a prosperous nation as such can enhance our democratic system,” Tor-Agbidye said.

    Also speaking, Mr Gambo Usman, State Coordinator, Congress for Democratic Advancement (CDA), a Taraba-based prodemocracy group said that Nigeria needed a good leadership to turn around its fortunes.

    Usman said that the essence of leadership, which was ensuring the wellbeing of the people, had however, been jettisoned, giving room for agitations.

    “Nigerians were complaining about Buhari and are still complaining about Tinubu today.

    “This shows that our major problem is leadership, and we must team up to get the right leadership,” he said.

    Mr Ben Adaji, a veteran journalist, said that most sectors were not performing up to their expectations.

    Adaji said that the judiciary and the anti corruption agencies were not effective in the discharge of their duties.

    He however, said that a 25-year-old democracy was expected to be strong enough to address poverty and underdevelopment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    AZA/MK/OIZ/DOR

    ==============

    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

  • Democracy: Nigerians call for 6 yrs rotational system of govt.

    Democracy: Nigerians call for 6 yrs rotational system of govt.

    Democracy

    By Blessing Odega/Onyeje Joel-Abutu/Nicholas Dechi

    Jos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) A cross section of Nigerians from the civil society, media and civil service, have called for a single tenure of six years and rotational system of government to improve Nigeria’s democracy.

    The respondents, who spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Wednesday, said unless the country reviewed its system of governance, dividends of democracy would continue to elude Nigerians.

    Mr Uche Nnorom, a Makurdi-based Journalist, said wrong leadership and bad governance had continued to the bane of Nigeria’s underdevelopment.

    According to Nnorom, leaders would be challenged to provide good leadership within six years and leave the stage for others because their for a second term tenure often leads to compromise and corrupt tendencies.

    He said they would have enough time to concentrate on the business of governance and would not be forced to dance to the tune of hungry politicians who they would be trusting to help realise their second term ambition.

    He said it was unfortunate that Nigerian leaders over the years had continued to be insensitive to the needs and yearnings of their people.

    “They contest with selfish motives, and to achieve their goals, they always have to collude with INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) and the judiciary,’’ he said.

    Nnorom therefore, urged leaders to ensure transparency, fairness and justice in leadership, as well as put measures in place to cushion the effects of any economic policies they might formulate in the overall interest of the citizens.

    On his part, civil society activist, Mr Steve Aluko, called on the government at all levels to strengthen democracy in Nigeria by prioritising good governance, transparency and accountability, tackle corruption and also promote the rule of law at all levels.

    Aluko, the Director, Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), told NAN in Jos, that the legislature, judiciary and executive arms of government had all failed Nigerians.

    According to him, the legislature, since 1999, has not passed any bill that will benefit the common man, such as the bill to make Local Governments (LGs) autonomous.

    He further said that most of the bills passed by the legislators rather fell short of the expectations of the masses.

    He also berated the governors for failing to conduct LG elections in their states, an act he described as contrary to democratic principles.

    Aluko also accused INEC, which he said should serve as a critical instrument in ensuring an unbiased democratic process, of being compromised repeatedly.

    “If the process is already compromised, then the product cannot be better off than the process itself,’’ he said.

    The activist, also in the same vein, said the judiciary had also done more harm than dispensing justice as most of the progressive judgments judges passed were reversed.

    He urged the judiciary to as a matter of urgency work towards redeeming its image, as Nigerians had lost confidence in the courts because the culture of impunity had taken over the justice process.

    On the part of the executive, Aluko called on the government to ensure citizens were provided with basic social needs, particularly in the area of protection of lives and properties as insecurity in the country had heightened in the last 25 years.

    Others who aired their views on Nigeria’s 25 years of democracy had been marred by the decisions of INEC and the judiciary.

    They blamed the two bodies for government failures in delivering dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

    Mr Attah Edeh said INEC and the judiciary had not managed Nigeria’s nascent democracy well with its controversial results and judgments which had brought in some bad leaders and had led to untold hardships on Nigerians.

    Edeh said: “INEC always clears unqualified candidates to contest election, and when the electorate exercise their power by voting qualified persons, INEC will still declare the unqualified ones as winners and ask the aggrieved parties to go to court.

    “It is a vicious circle that has stagnated democracy in Nigeria for 25 good years”, Edeh said.

    Also, some civil servants expressed dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s democratic journey so far, especially as it concerned workers.

    According to Mr Stephen Yohol, year after year, the emoluments of civil servants have remained stagnant, while those of politicians or public office holders keep increasing.

    Yohol said that the economy of the country also kept depreciating on a daily basis for the past 25 years.

    Mrs Veronica Ayoosu and Mr Joseph Bagu, on their part, said that Nigerians had not derived any benefits since the return of the country to democracy in the last 25 years, instead they had continued to face many challenges.

    Ayoosu and Bagu said most civil servants across the country were currently finding it difficult to feed their families and the government did not appear to be doing something about it. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    UBO/ONA/DND/DOR

    =================

    Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

  • Residents decry indiscriminate dumping of refuse on Lagos roads

    Refuse
    By Henry Oladele/Fabian Ekeruche
    Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Lagos residents on Wednesday decried the heaps of refuse on some major roads around the state without prompt evacuation by the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).
    The residents also lamented the indiscriminate dumping of refuse by Lagosians on the roads.
    In a separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), some residents also faulted LAWMA for the delay in evacuating the refuse in their homes.
    NAN reports that indiscriminate waste disposal is a common issue in many cities, including Lagos.
    It can lead to environmental pollution, health hazards, and other negative impacts.
    A businesswoman, Mrs Ibukun Cole, while speaking to NAN, said that residents can avoid littering and dispose waste properly.
    “I think we really need to be enlightened more on the dangers of improper waste disposal.
    “It will interest you to know that some people even dispose waste in the gutters especially when it rains.
    “I feel there should be a form of community clean-up and awareness programmes in every area to ensure people know the dangers of indiscriminate refuse dump,” she said.
    Cole also urged LAWMA to be prompt in evacuating waste, to remove heaps of refuse all over the state.
    A resident in Agege area of Lagos state, Mr Shina Ibrahim, told NAN that LAWMA was not doing enough in evacuating the heaps of refuse in the area.
    “Refuse dumps are being scattered all over the area and even in our homes, LAWMA does not come regularly as they should.
    “Sometimes, they only come once in a month which should not be so. We need them to regularly show up so that there won’t be heaps of refuse.
    He also urged the government to improve on its waste management infrastructure and services.
    Another resident who lives in the Igando area of the state, Mr Tosin Ogundairo, faulted LAWMA over its inability to promptly evacuate refuse within the area.
    The computer engineer told NAN that residents should take advantage of waste management services and designated bin collection points, rather than indiscriminately dumping refuse.
    “I think LAWMA should increase resources or request for additional funding, equipment, and personnel to enhance waste management operations.
    “They should also implement efficient collection systems or adapt technology-enabled waste collection systems and optimise routes to reduce collection time,” he said.
    A resident in Mushin area of the state, Mr Olamide Johnson, told NAN that the Private Sector Participant (PSP) operators engaged by LAWMA no longer come to their area to pick refuse.
    Johnson added that they dispose their refuse on the roads at midnight.
    “This has become a cause for concern in the area and we appeal to the government and LAWMA to curb the menace,” he said.
    Reacting, the National President of the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria, Mr Olugbenga Adebola, encouraged tenements across the country, particularly in Lagos state, to patronise PSP operators assigned to their areas for seamless waste evacuation.
    Adebola disclosed this in an interview with NAN against the backdrop of complaints of residents alleging the absence of PSP operators in the regular evacuation of their wastes.
    He said that such issues are locational, not generalised.
    According to him, tenements who pay for their wastes have the right to call on their PSP operators and the appropriate authorities when they experience gaps in refuse disposal in their area.
    “Many tenements don’t pay for their wastes thus cultivating the habit of indiscriminate waste disposal and this is posing great environmental danger to the environment.
    “If you pay, then you can call the attention of government or your PSP directly to say “I have not seen my PSP, and because many people do not pay, that is why they are dodging, that is why they will continue to litter the area, and it is only through enforcement that they come alive to their duty.
    “Waste has stopped being a social service to what we call a quasi-social service, which means he who pollute the environment must pay for the evacuation of that pollution, that is to say that anyone who generates wastes from Lagos must pay for the evacuation of that waste and a lot of people are dodging right now.
    “Maybe because of economic situation and the PSP is not a charitable organisation, it is not a Father Christmas, it’s he who pays the PSP that the PSP wants to service,” Adebola said.
    A General Physician, Dr Tunji Akintade, said that indiscriminate disposal of waste was detrimental to health, leading to the spread of diseases, contamination of water sources, and air pollution.
    Akintade noted that the practice had assumed an alarming proportion resulting in disease outbreaks, which have severe consequences for individuals, families, communities, and the health system.
    According to him, the country is battling a cholera outbreak among other diseases as a consequence of an unhygienic environment.
    He called for collaborative efforts toward ensuring a clean and healthy environment. (NAN)
    HOB/FBO/JNC
    ============
    Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

  • The future of Nigeria’s democracy is bright – Kano Speaker

    The future of Nigeria’s democracy is bright – Kano Speaker

    Democracy

    By Muhammad Nur Tijani

    Kano, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Speaker, Kano State House of Assembly, Mr Jibril Falgore has declared that the future of democracy in Nigeria is very bright.

    Falgore stated this on Wednesday in a statement by his media aide, Kamaluddeen Shawai, to mark the 2024 Democracy Day.

    According to Falgore, the future of Kano State and Nigeria shines brightly, considering the progress made from 1999 to date.

    “We have much to celebrate as we have come a long way since 1999, despite significant challenges, we have leveraged our indigenous strengths to achieve worthy milestones, particularly in the areas of quality legislation and good governance.

    “We assure the good people of Kano State of our commitment and dedication to enacting quality legislation that enhances the living standards of our populace, notably in areas impacting youth and women,” he said.

    While acknowledging the economic hardship being experienced by Nigerians, Falgore enjoined the people to show more resilience and pray for peace, stability and prosperity in the country. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    MNT/RSA

    ==========

    Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali