Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Category: News

  • Missing Hyena Captured, Returned To Plateau Wildlife Park 

    Missing Hyena Captured, Returned To Plateau Wildlife Park 

    The Management of Plateau State Tourism Corporation has stated that after relentless search and rescue efforts, the missing hyena from the Jos Wildlife Park has finally been found, tranquilised, captured and safely returned to its enclosure at the Park.

    A statement issued in Jos, the State capital, and signed by the General Manager of the Corporation, Chuwang Pwajok, on Tuesday, said: “We deeply appreciate the general public for remaining calm and cooperative. This has greatly assisted in the search and rescue of the animal.”

    It will recalled that the Management of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation had declared that one of the Hyenas at the Jos Wildlife Park escaped, adding that the Hyena was being tracked by their dedicated team of game guards and Park Rangers with the assistance of drone technology.

    It assured the public that the corporation was taking all necessary measures to locate the escaped animal and ensure its safe return to its enclosure soonest.

  • Breaking: NUPENG, PENGASSAN write Tinubu, seek probe of alleged IOCs against Dangote Refinery

    Breaking: NUPENG, PENGASSAN write Tinubu, seek probe of alleged IOCs against Dangote Refinery

    The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG and its Petroleum and Natural and Senior Staff Association, PENGASSAN, have written to President Bola Tinubu, demanding a high powered investigation into the allegation that the International Oil Companies, IOCs, are plotting to undermine and destabilize the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals.

    In a written through the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, dated July 1, 2024, the oil workers demanded among others, that the findings of such investigation must be made public to ensure transparency and maintain public trust.

    The letter signed by the NUPENG’s General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale and his PENGASSAN’s counterpart, Lumumba Okugbawa, read “The leadership and members of our great Union and Association profoundly appreciate your commitment and dedication to restoring the economic growth and prosperity of our dear Nation and we are also fuly mobilized and committed to supporting al your laudable thoughts and hard decisions towards these lofty goals.

    “Unfortunately, we are deeply concerned and shocked by the recent unusual allegations by the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Company of a deliberate plot by some International Oil Companies (IOCs) to frustrate their business efforts and continued existence.

    “These sabotaging actions reportedly include denying the Refinery crude oil supply and artificially inflating market prices of the crude oil to the Company, thereby forcing Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Company to source crude oil from other countries, even as far as the United States of America with attendant high operating costs and logistics.

    “The Dangote Refinery is not only a critical National asset but also a beacon of hope for our energy security, economic growth, and employment opportunities. The economic benefits of a Local Refinery with such capacity as the Dangote’s to Nigeria, can never be overstated.

    “This is why for several decades now, NUPENG and PENGASSAN have campaigned vigorously that Nigeria should make ti a pre-requisite condition that Companies that want to benefit from JVC arrangements with Nigeria, to set up a Refinery/Petrochemical Company ni Nigeria.

    “Unfortunately, no sucessive Governments summoned enough political and patriotic courage to take that logical and pragmatic policy direction. The survival of companies that have braved ti up and invested hugely ni refining crude ni Nigeria thus saving our Nation from wasteful product importations that profit other countries and cost us forex, should be of great interest to us as a Nation because of the enormous economic benefits involved.

    “Our demands are as follows: Immediate Investigation: The Federal Government should set up an independent panel ot investigate the claims of sabotage by some International Oli Companies. This investigation should be compreensive and transparent, ensuring that al parties involved are held accountable.

    “Public Disclosure: The findings of this investigation must be made public ot ensure transparency and maintain public trust. Nigerians deserve to know the truth about the actions of these International Oil Companies and the impact on our National interests.

    “Legal Action: Should the allegations be substantiated, we expect the Government to take decisive legal action against the entities involved. This must include sanctions, penalties, and any other measures necessary to deter future acts of economic sabotage.

    “Support for Dangote Refinery: The Government should provide al necessary support to ensure the uninterrupted commencement and operation of the Dangote Refinery. This includes ensuring security and stability around the Refinery’s operations.

    “Your Excellency Sir, we trust your courage and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project and we believe that the Presidency wil take decisive action to safeguard the Dangote Refinery and ensure its successful operation for the benefit of our Nation.

  • Armed Hoodlums at Emir’s Palace in Kano Cause Fear Among Residents

    Armed Hoodlums at Emir’s Palace in Kano Cause Fear Among Residents

    Residents of Rano town in Kano State are alarmed by the presence of armed hoodlums who have taken up residence at the Emirate’s headquarters since Sunday.

    A letter sent to the state Police Commissioner, on Tuesday, disclosed that these armed individuals have been camped at the Emir’s palace, including both the Main Palace and the historic Tsohon Gari Palace, since their arrival.

    The identities and intentions of those who brought them there remain unknown, raising concerns about the safety of lives and property in the area.

    The letter partly reads: “On the evening of Sunday, July 7, 2024, Rano town, the heart of our Rano emirate, was invaded by armed hoodlums, believed to be sponsored by unidentified persons, who camped at the Emir’s palaces.”

    The letter also highlights that the presence of these armed individuals defies a recent directive issued by the Police Commissioner on June 20, 2024. This directive banned all non-state security actors, including vigilantes and hunters, from providing security services in the state.

    Residents of the Rano emirate are known for their peaceful disposition and typically go about their activities without causing trouble. 

    The letter emphasized that Rano has enjoyed years of uninterrupted peace, with security agencies attesting to this fact.

    However, recent disputes over the emirates in Kano State have led to increased tension and dissatisfaction among residents, who feel that their views have been disregarded. 

    The letter noted that there were no public hearings across the state to assess the necessity of dissolving the four additional emirates (Rano, Gaya, Karaye, and Bichi) established by former Governor Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.

    Despite these tensions, the residents of Rano have shown restraint, abiding by the law and engaging only in peaceful protests. 

    They continued to respect the judicial process, awaiting the outcome of the emirate case currently before the Federal High Court in Kano.

  • KWASU expels 175 students

    KWASU expels 175 students

    The management of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, says it has expelled 175 students for various offences.

    This is contained in a statement issued by the Director of University Relations, Dr Saeedat Aliyu, on Tuesday.

    The university management said that the expulsion approval followed the recommendations of the Students’ Disciplinary Committee, which held sittings between Oct. 2021 and March 2024.

    The management said the expelled students were penalised for offences ranging from examination malpractice, theft, using fake results to gain admission, assault, fraud, belonging to unregistered associations and possession of firearm.

    ”The management of KWASU wishes to reiterate its zero-tolerance for all acts of indiscipline as the institution stands firm on producing graduates, who are excellent both in character and in learning,” Aliyu said.

  • Sunak Appoints Cabinet Members Despite Losing To Starmer

    In a significant reshuffling following the Conservative Party’s historic election loss in the United Kingdom, British opposition leader, Rishi Sunak announced his shadow cabinet on Monday.

    Some senior ministers have returned to roles they previously held in government, despite the recent parliamentary election defeat. Notably, former Foreign Secretary David Cameron has resigned.

    Andrew Mitchell is also set to manage foreign policy within the interim shadow cabinet, a team of senior spokespeople appointed by the opposition leader to mirror the government’s cabinet.

    The Conservative Party’s loss marked a historic moment, with several high-profile ministers, including former Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, losing their seats.

    The shadow cabinet will see James Cleverly continue his role with the Home Office, while James Cartlidge will handle defence matters, according to a party statement.

    “The Conservative Party has had a difficult election and it is important that we regroup and reflect on these results,” stated the new interim Chairman Richard Fuller. “We should also challenge ourselves candidly and deeply on the strengths of the Conservative Party across the country and outline where improvements can be made.”

    Chris Philp has been appointed Shadow Leader of the House of Commons, succeeding Penny Mordaunt, who was among the senior lawmakers to lose their seats.

    Former business minister Kemi Badenoch will now oversee the “levelling up” agenda.

    Jeremy Hunt will continue with the finance brief, while former Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden takes on the role of deputy leader of the opposition.

  • Federal Government Suspends Duties and Tariffs on Essential Food Imports

    Federal Government Suspends Duties and Tariffs on Essential Food Imports

    The Federal Government has announced the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes on select essential food items imported through land and sea borders.

    The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, made the announcement during a press briefing at the National Press Centre, Abuja, on Monday.

    Kyari revealed that the affected food items, including maize, wheat, husked brown rice, and cowpeas, will benefit from a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window.

    This initiative is part of the Presidential Accelerated Stabilization and Advancement Plan, aimed at achieving food security and economic stability in Nigeria.

    The minister highlighted the government’s efforts to combat the ongoing food inflation crisis, which has led to unprecedented price increases.

    Kyari assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and preventing hunger.

    “The Federal Government has announced a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window for food commodities, suspending duties, tariffs, and taxes on the importation of maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas through land and sea borders,” Kyari stated. “Under this arrangement, imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP).”

    He emphasized that the government’s standards would not compromise the safety of the imported food items for consumption. Additionally, the Federal Government plans to import 250,000 metric tonnes of wheat and 250,000 metric tonnes of maize.

    These semi-processed food commodities will be distributed to small-scale processors and millers across the country.

    In a related development, Kyari announced the inauguration of the Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Implementation Committee.

    This committee is tasked with developing and implementing policies that prioritize livestock development in alignment with the National Livestock Transformation Plan.

  • What I told Tinubu about Wike, Fubara fight – Edwin Clark

    What I told Tinubu about Wike, Fubara fight – Edwin Clark

    Elder statesman Edwin Clark said he has advised President Bola Tinubu to give Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State a free hand to run his state’s affairs.

    The Ijaw national leader said this while weighing in on the crisis between Fubara and Tinubu’s appointee, Nyesom Wike, which has engulfed the oil-rich state in the past few months.

    The crisis has polarised the Rivers State House of Assembly, while many members of Wike’s camp previously appointed by Fubara have quit.

    “I have advised Mr President (Tinubu) again that he should leave Fubara alone to run his government, Wike should concentrate on his job in Abuja.

    “Once that is done, there will be peace and stability in the state. But if they do anything contrary and there is no peace, it will affect the economy of the country,” Clark told The Punch.

    The 97-year-old said elder statesmen like himself have been unable to mediate between Wike and Fubara because of the former’s insistence on controlling the political structure of the state.

    “How do you bring them together? One man says I have divorced. But you are my house help. There is no way. You are my son. There is no way any outsider can accept him.

    “This is because Wike does not see anything wrong with him. He believes that he is still controlling the structures in Rivers State whereas those structures have been there from governor to governor.

    “They don’t belong to one person. Wike was not yet born when Rivers was created,” he said.

    Clark castigated the Caretaker Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tony Okocha for calling on the president to declare a state of emergency in the state over the crisis.

    “Concerning the call for a declaration of a state emergency, I can tell you that (Tony)nOkocha doesn’t know what he is doing. Who is he to call for that? He was only fortunate to be put there because the existing Rivers APC executives were dissolved in the first place. He knows me very well.

    “Was he not the chief of staff to (Rotimi) Amaechi when he was governor? They were in the APC together. Wike later took seven of them to see (Dr Abdullahi) Ganduje in Abuja. They formed a (caretaker) committee, and today, he is the chairman of Rivers State APC. So, it was obvious from the start that Okocha didn’t want to be with Amaechi again.

    “These are the people scattering Rivers State,” he said.

  • Bello/EFCC: Present your case transfer to Lokoja request in open court – CJ …Says defendant has pending appeal bordering on jurisdiction before Appeal Court

    Bello/EFCC: Present your case transfer to Lokoja request in open court – CJ …Says defendant has pending appeal bordering on jurisdiction before Appeal Court

    …’It’s improper to take any step that will amount to pre-empting Appeal outcome’

    The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Terhembe Tsoho, has directed that the request by a former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, for the transfer of the alleged money laundering case instituted against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to Kogi State be presented in open court.

    In a letter addressed to Abdulwahab Muhammed, SAN and Musa Yakubu, SAN, the Chief Judge drew the attention of the former governor’s counsels to a pending appeal in the case: Yahaya Adoza Bello Vs FRN wherein the defendant had sought a consequential order remitting the case to the Chief Judge for reassignment.

    The letter, signed by Special Assistant to the CJ, Joshua Ibrahim AJI, Esq, said as a result of this, it would be improper to take any step that would be tantamount to pre-empting the outcome of the Appeal.

    “There is documentary evidence of a pending appeal in the case Yahaya Adoza Bello Vs FRN filed on 17/05/2024 wherein the defendant as Appellant has sought a consequential order remitting the case to the Chief Judge for reassignment. It is not proper to take any step that will tantamount to pre-empting the outcome of the Appeal.

    “The main issue raised is jurisdictional in nature and will be more appropriately decided by the court. The matter should therefore be presented in open court,” the CJ stated.

    The Chief Judge noted that the main offence alleged bordered on conversion of Kogi State funds to purchase properties in Abuja, and that the filing of the charge could either be in Abuja or Lokoja.

    He referred to two ongoing cases before the FHC in charge No FHC/ABJ/CR/550/22 FRN Vs Ali Bello and another, and another charge, FRN Vs Ali Bello and 3 others, where a similar request for transfer was made and the lower court refused the application.

  • Labour insists N250,000 as minimum wage

    Labour insists N250,000 as minimum wage

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has unequivocally maintained its stance on the proposed ₦250,000 minimum wage, resisting the Federal Government’s offer of ₦62,000.

    The declaration was made by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, at an award ceremony in Kano, highlighting the union’s commitment to advocating for the interests of Nigerian workers.

    Despite several meetings aimed at resolving the wage dispute, no agreement has been reached, with both the government and the NLC holding their grounds.

    The impasse continues even after the expiration of the existing minimum wage in April 2024, which has heightened tensions between the parties involved.

    During his speech, delivered by NLC General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, Ajaero voiced concerns over the current economic challenges and escalating inflation rates, which he argued have severely impacted the living standards of workers.

    “The economic reality and worsening inflation could no longer sustain Nigerian workers,” Ajaero stated, emphasizing the urgent need for a wage that ensures a dignified life for all labourers.

  • Nigeria records 106, 604 human rights abuses in June alone – NHRC

    Nigeria records 106, 604 human rights abuses in June alone – NHRC

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Monday, revealed that Nigeria recorded a total of 106, 604 reported human rights abuses in the month of June alone.

    The rights abuses comprised 1,667 children abandonment and killing of 19 security personnel during the period.

    NHRC, through its Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN) said that the figure of the human rights abuses in June was the highest in the past six months.

    This was made known at the 6th edition of the monthly human rights dashboard of the Commission in Abuja.

    Ojukwu said that he increase was disturbing but not unexpected in view of the circumstances of the situation in the country.

    He called on the state governors to rise to the protection of the fundamental rights of the citizens in their States adding that, the Commission itself would collaborate more with traditional rulers and Civil Society Organisations to raise the campaigns against human rights abuses.

    Ojukwu noted with regret the increase in the extra-judicial killings in the country where he said Ebonyi and the Federal Capital Territory topped the list during the period.

    Giving the breakdown of the reported 106, 604 human rights abuses, the Senior Human Rights Adviser to the NHRC Executive Secretary, Mr. Hillary Ogbonna explained that things are not going well in the country and that the increase in rights abuses called for more action.

    Ogbonna said that the North Central still topped the table on the human rights abuses with a record of 29, 462, closely followed by South South with 21, 603.

    Ogbonna explained that the South West recorded 18, 458, North West recorded 15, 101, North East, 12, 907, while South East recorded the lowest of 9, 164 reporter cases of human rights violation.

    On the extra judicial killings, Ogbonna regretted that killing for blasphemy was recorded in Bauchi, another killed in Ondo state for infidelity and the stabbing of a wife’s lover to death in Ogun state, while the recorded ones in Edo are related to cultism.

    He said that three different attacks were carried out on Police stations with FCT having one, while Ebonyi recorded two and appealed to Nigerians to stop attack on security operatives.

    He also reminded me that mob actions and jungle justice are against Nigeria laws and should therefore be stopped.

    On bomb related matters, he said Borno topped the list with two twin bomb explosions at wedding ceremonies where some people were killed, while Kaduna, Benue, Katsina and Plateau also have their own share in the terrorism related killings in the month of June.

    The human rights expert the Commission is concerned with the high level of violation of the fundamental rights of women and children in the country.

    Responding to a question on the 1, 667 abandoned children, the NHRC boss blamed the trend on the economic situation but however explained that, the economic situation should not be a good be a reason for innocent children to be abandoned.

    Ojukwu said the Commission is partnering with stakeholders to provide shelter for the abandoned children while efforts are made to discover the parents of the children.