Grandview

Category: Politics

  • Presidency: Tinubu Will Not Allow Nigerian Territory to Be Ceded to France

    Presidency: Tinubu Will Not Allow Nigerian Territory to Be Ceded to France

    The Presidency has dismissed allegations made by Niger Republic’s leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, claiming that Nigeria is collaborating with France to establish military bases on its soil.

    The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, Bayo Onanuga, described the claims as baseless and false.

    General Tiani alleged that France, under the guise of fighting terrorism, is seeking to establish a foothold in Nigeria to destabilize Niger Republic and other neighboring countries. He further claimed that France is offering financial incentives to Nigerian authorities to set up a military base in Borno State and planning a “terrorist operational center” in Gaba, Sokoto State. According to Tiani, these efforts are part of a broader strategy to undermine Niger’s sovereignty and destabilize the West African region.

    Responding to these allegations, Onanuga categorically denied the accusations, dismissing them as unfounded propaganda aimed at tarnishing Nigeria’s international reputation. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and maintaining peace in the region.

    “President Tinubu is unwavering in his dedication to Nigeria’s independence and security,” Onanuga stated. He emphasized that the Presidency would not be distracted by such baseless accusations and reassured Nigerians that national security remains a top priority.

  • Tinubu Presides Over FEC Meeting as Members Celebrate Edo Governorship Victory

    Tinubu Presides Over FEC Meeting as Members Celebrate Edo Governorship Victory

    President Bola Tinubu is presiding over the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where the Council celebrated the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s recent governorship victory in Edo State.

    The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, conveyed the Council’s congratulations to the people of Edo and the APC, highlighting the party’s significant win after an eight-year absence from power in the state. Akume attributed the victory to President Tinubu’s commitment to democratic values and transparent elections.

    “We commend the APC family in Edo, guided by the leadership of the party, for securing this remarkable victory after eight years,” Akume stated, adding that the election was widely recognized as free and fair, a testament to President Tinubu’s dedication to electoral integrity.

    The FEC also observed a minute of silence in memory of Mrs. Salome Audu Jankada, former Minister of Women Affairs and Youth Development under President Olusegun Obasanjo, who passed away on August 27, 2024.

  • PHOTO: Yahaya Bello arrives EFCC office with Ododo

    PHOTO: Yahaya Bello arrives EFCC office with Ododo

    Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has arrived at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja, accompanied by his successor, Governor Usman Ododo.

    Bello’s Director of Media, Ohiare Michael, had previously announced the former governor’s decision to honor the EFCC’s invitation following consultations with his family, legal team, and political associates.

    In a statement titled “Former Governor Yahaya Bello Honours EFCC’s Invitation,” it was confirmed that Bello was joined by several prominent Nigerians during his visit to the agency.

  • 2.2 Million Registered Voters in Edo Collect PVCs — INEC

    2.2 Million Registered Voters in Edo Collect PVCs — INEC

    Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that a total of 2,249,780 registered voters have collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs).

    According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), this accounts for 85.57 percent of the 2,629,025 total registered voters in the state. Mr. Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, shared this information in a statement issued to reporters in Abuja on Tuesday.

    Olumekun noted that as of Monday, September 16, there were 379,245 uncollected PVCs, representing 14.43 percent, following the extended collection period.

    To assist with the upcoming election on Saturday, September 21, INEC is providing detailed data on PVC collection by polling unit in Edo State.

    “The breakdown of PVCs collected and uncollected for each unit has been uploaded to our website for the benefit of political parties, candidates, and the public,” Olumekun stated.

    He encouraged those interested to visit the commission’s website to access the 128-page document.

  • Hunger Protest: IG Urges Officers to Maintain Professionalism

    Hunger Protest: IG Urges Officers to Maintain Professionalism

    The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has urged police officers to stay prepared, alert, and professional during the protests scheduled for August 1 to 10.

    Egbetokun emphasized that the safety and security of the nation rely on the vigilance, bravery, and readiness of the police and other security agencies. This message was conveyed during a virtual meeting with senior officers, as stated by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, on Wednesday.

    During the meeting, the IG reminded senior officers of their duty to uphold the rule of law and conduct their duties with the utmost integrity. According to the statement, Egbetokun stressed the importance of maintaining a high level of alertness and professionalism within the force, highlighting the critical role of the police in ensuring law and order during the planned nationwide protests.

    The IG also underscored the need for continuous preparedness and strategic deployment of police officers to effectively respond to any situation that may arise. He directed senior officers to ensure that the protests do not escalate into violence, noting that while peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right, the police must be vigilant to prevent any group from inciting violence.

    Furthermore, Egbetokun issued a stern warning against the spread of fake news during the protests, advising officers to take necessary steps to manage misinformation and urging the public to avoid sharing unverified content on social media.

    He also cautioned against unplanned protests and unnecessary street processions, which could disrupt public order and safety. The IG reiterated that confined protests are preferable in this situation to prevent the destruction of public infrastructure and property.

    Egbetokun concluded by calling on all senior officers to remain committed to their duties, emphasizing that their leadership is crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.

  • Tinubu orders sale of crude oil in naira, marketers predict price drop

    Tinubu orders sale of crude oil in naira, marketers predict price drop

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the sale of crude oil to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in naira, a move expected to significantly reduce the prices of domestically refined petroleum products, according to oil marketers, refiners, and experts.

    Downstream oil sector operators praised the President’s decision, highlighting its potential to increase domestic refinery output, boost foreign exchange reserves, and strengthen the naira. They also appreciated the media for keeping the issue prominent, arguing that Nigerian refineries should not need US dollars to buy domestically produced crude.

    On Monday, Tinubu instructed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to sell crude oil in naira to the Dangote refinery and other upcoming refineries. This decision was shared by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Publicity, via his official X handle.

    Onanuga explained that the Federal Executive Council adopted this policy to stabilize fuel prices and the dollar-naira exchange rate. The Dangote refinery, which has faced crude supply issues with International Oil Companies (IOCs) and midstream/downstream regulators, requires about 15 cargoes of crude oil annually at a cost of $13.5 billion. NNPC has pledged to supply four cargoes, and the new order mandates selling crude to domestic refineries in naira.

    The Federal Executive Council approved offering the 450,000 barrels intended for domestic consumption to Nigerian refineries in naira, with Dangote refinery as a pilot. This plan aims to eliminate the need for international letters of credit, saving the country billions on imported refined fuel.

    Zacch Adedeji, the President’s Special Adviser on Revenue and Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, stated that this move would reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign exchange for crude oil imports, saving an estimated $7.3 billion annually and lowering monthly forex expenditure on petroleum products from $660 million to $50 million.

    Adedeji emphasized that denominating crude transactions in naira would bring economic predictability by reducing forex fluctuations, and noted the benefits of the new regime, including decreased foreign exchange pressure and finance costs. The Federal Executive Council has appointed Afrieximbank as the lead arranger for the transaction between NNPC and Dangote refinery, with support from the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Finance, and other agencies.

  • Yewa Youths Opt Out of Nationwide Protest, Advocate for Dialogue

    Yewa Youths Opt Out of Nationwide Protest, Advocate for Dialogue

    Youths across Yewaland have resolved not to participate in the upcoming nationwide protest scheduled to commence 1st of August, 2024. Announcing its decision to employ dialogue, Yewa Youth Association, the coordinating parent-youth body for all youth bodies in Yewaland, submitted that peaceful engagement is the most effective means to achieve meaningful and lasting change.

    In light of recent events, the leadership of the youth body noted the deep concerns and passions that are driving many to take to the streets. However, YYA firmly believes that fostering open communication and mutual understanding is the best path forward.

    “Our decision not to participate in the upcoming protest is grounded in our commitment to constructive dialogue and peace,” said Com. Olaniran Fatai, the body’s spokesman. “We understand and respect the voices of those who choose to protest, but we believe that sustainable change comes from engaging with stakeholders in meaningful conversations.”

    Yewa Youth Association reemphasized its dedication to its mission and noted that it will continue to work tirelessly to address the issues at hand through various initiatives, including community forums, policy advocacy, and collaborative efforts with other organizations and leaders. The body has invited the entire youth framework of Yewaland to join them in these efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable society.

  • JUST IN: Tinubu signs new minimum wage bill into law

    JUST IN: Tinubu signs new minimum wage bill into law

    On Monday, President Bola Tinubu signed the new Minimum Wage Act into law. The signing took place at 2 PM in the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The brief ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, among others.

    More details to follow…

  • French President Macron Keeps Prime Minister Attal Amid Election Upset

    French President Macron Keeps Prime Minister Attal Amid Election Upset

    French President Emmanuel Macron has declined Prime Minister Gabriel Attal’s resignation in the wake of surprising results from France’s snap parliamentary elections, the Élysée Palace announced on Monday.

    Macron has requested Attal to stay temporarily in his role to maintain stability in the country.

    Attal had tendered his resignation on Sunday evening following the preliminary election outcomes.

    Official results from the Interior Ministry on Monday indicated that the left-wing alliance, New Popular Front (NFP), emerged unexpectedly victorious in the run-off election, though falling short of an absolute majority. The alliance did not field a lead candidate in the election.

    Macron’s centrist Ensemble bloc secured second place, while Marine Le Pen’s far-right nationalist National Rally (RN), initially favored after the first round, finished third.

    With no group achieving a majority, the process of forming a new government is now complicated.

  • Governor Makinde Presents Staff and Instrument of Office to Elempe of Tapa

    Governor Makinde Presents Staff and Instrument of Office to Elempe of Tapa

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, represented by Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal, presented the staff and instruments of office to the Elempe of Tapa, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Oyekanmi Titiloye (Abioje I).

    The ceremony took place at Tapa Community High School, Ibarapa North Local Government, reaffirming the government’s commitment to enhancing the traditional institution. Governor Makinde charged Oba Titilayo Oyekanmi to prioritize community development and collaborate closely with the government on critical issues such as education, healthcare, security, and economic growth.