The Edo State Police Command has launched a campaign to seize illegal arms and ammunition in preparation for the state’s upcoming governorship election on September 21.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Moses Yamu, shared the announcement on Saturday in Benin, relaying a statement from the state’s Commissioner of Police, Nemi Iwo. The initiative is aimed at ensuring the security of the election process, which is expected to be a significant event for the state.

Commissioner Iwo, addressing a meeting with the chairmen of political parties and their governorship candidates, emphasized that the primary goal of the operation is to guarantee a peaceful and secure environment during the elections.

He urged political leaders to play a role in preventing violence by advising their supporters to refrain from any form of aggression.

“The importance of maintaining peace cannot be overstated. We are asking all political parties to encourage their supporters to stay away from violent acts,” Iwo said.

He further assured the participants of the police’s commitment to providing adequate security for voters, ensuring that they can exercise their rights without fear of harassment or intimidation.

“Our responsibility is to create a secure environment where everyone can freely cast their votes. We have put in place measures to protect all stakeholders and electoral materials,” the commissioner added.

In addition to this, Iwo called on the public to provide any information that could assist law enforcement in creating a safe atmosphere for the election.

He noted that collaboration between the police and the public would be essential in ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.

The National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Alhaji Abubakar Maigandi Shettima, has assured Nigerians that the current fuel crisis will be resolved soon.

Speaking to journalists in Kaduna on Saturday, Shettima revealed that IPMAN had recently held a crucial meeting with the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Minister of Oil, and other key stakeholders in the oil industry, where they received assurances that the situation would be brought under control in the near future.

He explained that disruptions in fuel supply often occur when there are changes, especially price increases, in fuel pump rates. “Whenever there are changes, particularly in pump prices, it creates temporary issues as fuel pump adjustments are made, and marketers are usually required to clear any outstanding debts before they can lift fuel at the new prices,” Shettima noted.

He added confidently, “Once all these requirements are met, the fuel crisis will be over.”

Addressing the confusion surrounding the recent fuel price hike, Shettima clarified that IPMAN is not privy to the reasons behind the decision. “We are not aware of the reasons for the increase in fuel prices. It is the authorities who decide on the pricing,” he explained.

“We are simply marketers, and our role is to sell the products. We do not have control over the pricing decisions made by the government or regulatory bodies,” Shettima concluded.

The Forum of Zonal Coordinators of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged a shift from protests to constructive dialogue in response to the recent fuel price hike.

The forum emphasized that discussions with relevant stakeholders would be more effective in addressing the issue and finding long-term solutions, rather than resorting to demonstrations that could be manipulated by individuals with selfish motives.

In a statement, the forum clarified that NANS has not called for any protests or demonstrations, urging the public to disregard any calls for protests from non-student groups with ulterior agendas.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Saturday, Forum Chairman Comrade Bilal Kurfi expressed empathy towards the student community, acknowledging the challenges posed by the economic policies introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Kurfi stated, “Rather than having students take to the streets in protests that could be hijacked and further escalate tensions, we believe dialogue should be the tool to resolve the current crisis. We are intellectuals, not street urchins or political thugs for hire by moneybags to destabilize the nation.”

He further emphasized the forum’s commitment to peaceful and constructive engagement, adding, “NANS is dedicated to fostering peaceful dialogue, and we will not be part of any action that jeopardizes the safety and well-being of our members or the general public.”

Kurfi continued, “The student body intends to engage in discussions with the federal government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to seek a reduction in fuel prices and mitigate the inflationary impact on our peers.

Protests led by non-students pretending to be our colleagues could destabilize the nation, and we believe dialogue is a far more productive route.”

The forum assured the student community that it would take civil and democratic actions concerning the fuel price increase and expressed confidence that President Tinubu, as a sympathetic leader, would address their concerns.

In addition, the forum denounced calls for a nationwide protest and economic shutdown by Mr. Henry Adewumi Okunomo, distancing itself from such actions.

Several commuters narrowly escaped death on Saturday when a petroleum tanker burst into flames at Ajia junction on the Ibadan-Ife Road, Ibadan.

The tanker, heavily loaded with fuel, caught fire around 4:45 p.m. as the driver attempted to switch lanes.

The fire destroyed several vehicles, including a mini truck, a commuter bus, a Micra car, a tricycle, and two motorcycles.

Eyewitness Biodun Ayoola recounted the chaotic scene, explaining that as soon as the tanker caught fire, passengers in the nearby vehicles and on the motorcycles fled in fear. “All the occupants of the affected vehicles and motorcycles immediately ran for their lives when they saw the petrol tanker on fire,” Ayoola said.

He further attributed the incident to ongoing construction at Ajia junction, where the contractor had blocked one lane for a pedestrian bridge, forcing vehicles to use the other.

“The tanker exploded while trying to merge onto the other lane, but thankfully, everyone managed to escape before the blast,” Ayoola added.

Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) public relations officer for Oyo State, Mayowa Odewo, confirmed the incident and reported that officers from the Egbeda unit were still managing the situation.

He assured that a detailed statement would be released once the operation was completed.

…Approves Indefinite Leave of Absence for Chief Ajuri Ngelale

President Bola Tinubu has approved an indefinite leave of absence for Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, following a formal request citing personal and health reasons.

In a statement from the Presidency, the President acknowledged and accepted Ngelale’s decision with deep understanding and compassion. He expressed his heartfelt prayers for Ngelale and his family, hoping for a swift recovery and restoration to full health.

“The President accepts his reasons for the leave, fully understands them, and sympathizes with the circumstances that have led to this seemingly difficult decision,” the statement read.

The President also commended Ngelale for his unwavering dedication to national service, especially in advancing critical issues such as national discourse and climate action. President Tinubu recognized Ngelale’s tireless contributions during his time in office and expressed gratitude for his leadership in key government initiatives.

“His remarkable efforts have left a lasting impact, and we are grateful for his contributions,” the statement added.

During this period, the Presidency has requested that the privacy of Chief Ngelale and his family be respected.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the federal government and law enforcement agencies to recognize protests as expressions of fundamental human rights, urging them to stop criminalizing such actions.

Speaking at the commission’s dashboard presentation report for July and August 2024 in Abuja, NHRC Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu emphasized the importance of protecting the right to protest.

He urged all tiers of government to prepare for next month’s planned nationwide protest, advising against efforts to criminalize its organizers.

“The government has been given enough notice by the organizers, and it is the duty of law enforcement agencies to ensure strategies are in place to prevent hoodlums from hijacking the protest and giving it a criminalized image,” Ojukwu stated.

He also condemned the excessive use of force and violation of rights to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and assembly, particularly referencing the recent #EndBadGovernance protests held across the country.

Ojukwu expressed concern over the rising displacement crisis in Nigeria, highlighting that around 208,655 individuals in 22 states have been displaced so far this year, a significant increase compared to 2023.

“It is therefore imperative that government takes immediate and sustainable actions to address this pressing issue, ensuring the protection and well-being of all those affected by displacement,” he urged.

Presenting the NHRC’s July and August human rights assessment dashboard, senior Human Rights adviser to the NHRC Executive Secretary, Mr. Hillary Ogbona, reported that over 1,200 people who participated in the #EndBadGovernance protests last month have been arrested and detained by security agencies across the country.

“Some of these protesters have been charged to court, but the commission is gravely concerned that they were detained beyond the period allowed by law before being taken to court,” Ogbona noted.

The NHRC dashboard also revealed that a total of 414,200 complaints of human rights abuses were received by the commission in the last two months.

Ogbona stressed that peaceful protest is not a crime, but rather a legitimate way for citizens to express their grievances against unfavorable government policies.

“Government should not attempt to stop protests but to guide them. At the same time, it should not lump genuine protesters with criminals. You don’t arrest and detain people for protesting,” Ogbona asserted.

“Looting and destruction of properties are not protest but acts of criminality, which should not be regarded as part of peaceful protests,” he emphasized.

The Jigawa State House of Assembly has declared a state of emergency on education in a bid to address the alarming rate of out-of-school children in the state.

This was announced by Speaker Haruna Dangyatum during a one-day meeting with legislators organized by the Jigawa State Basic Education Board (SUBEB) in Kaduna on Saturday.

The declaration follows a report by the Jigawa State Bureau of Statistics, revealing that 38.5% of children aged 5 to 14 are not in school, while 32.3% of youths aged 15 to 17 did not attend school.

Describing the situation as “alarming,” Mr. Dangyatum emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue and announced plans for intervention at the constituency level.

“I ordered honourable members to move to their wards in order to investigate the figures in their areas so that we can synergize and bring a lasting solution,” he said.

“We have been trusted by our people; therefore, it is an obligation on us to address this issue, even if it means using our personal resources.”

Abubakar Jallo, representing Hadejia State Constituency, stressed the need for collective efforts to combat the problem, urging stakeholders in the education sector to make clear distinctions between out-of-school children and pupils of informal Qur’anic schools, also known as “Almajiri.”

“Whenever the issue of out-of-school children arises, our minds take us to the Almajiri, who are in the informal schools. But we have failed to admit that there are children in our communities who don’t even have access to both formal and informal education for one reason or another,” Jallo explained.

Haruna Adamu, chairman of SUBEB, pledged to work closely with the legislators to ensure their commitment is followed through.

“We have a good working relationship with the legislature, and we will give close monitoring to ensure each member obeys the directive,” Adamu stated.

In addition, the Jigawa Assembly signed a partnership agreement with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to enhance collaboration and ensure effective intervention in tackling the out-of-school children issue in the state.

Goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen helped Nigeria’s Super Eagles secure a 3-0 victory against Benin Republic in their opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.

Lookman, recently nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, celebrated his achievement in style by scoring two well-taken goals, putting Nigeria, the 2024 AFCON runners-up, on the right path toward qualifying for the next tournament in Morocco.

Despite Benin’s strong defensive effort, which nearly saw them hold Nigeria to a 0-0 draw in the first half, the Atalanta forward broke the deadlock during added time just before halftime.

Victor Osimhen, who recently joined Galatasaray after a high-profile transfer saga involving Napoli, Chelsea, and Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli, added the third goal.

The reigning African Footballer of the Year showcased his class by scoring a remarkable goal in the 78th minute, shortly after replacing Victor Boniface.

With this victory, the Super Eagles have started their AFCON qualifying campaign in dominant fashion. More details to follow.

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equipping police personnel with the tools and training necessary to effectively protect and serve citizens.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the passing out parade of 478 Regular Cadet Graduates at the Nigeria Police Academy in Wudil, Kano, on Saturday, Mr. Tinubu highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the capacity of the police force.

The president emphasized that providing adequate resources and training for the police is essential for national security. “A well-resourced police force is fundamental to national security,” he noted, underscoring the administration’s focus on improving equipment and infrastructure within the force.

He outlined several initiatives his administration has begun to implement, including the acquisition of new vehicles, communication equipment, and forensic tools to boost crime detection and prevention capabilities.

“Our government is working tirelessly to improve the quality of lives for all personnel and their families,” President Tinubu stated. “A satisfied and well-cared-for police officer is essential to ensuring the safety and security of our people.”

In addition to improving the working conditions of officers, the president mentioned an ongoing nationwide recruitment drive aimed at addressing the issue of understaffing within the force.

“These initiatives will inject new energy into the force, reduce overworking, and provide more opportunities for all Nigerians to serve their country,” he added.

President Tinubu also praised Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and the staff of the Nigeria Police Academy for their professionalism, dedication, and passion, which he said had not gone unnoticed.

He urged the 478 graduates to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in their duties. “Shun corruption, abuse of power, and misconduct,” he implored. “Be good ambassadors of the force and protect lives and property.”

Earlier, the commandant of the academy, AIG Sadiq Abubakar, reiterated the academy’s commitment to producing well-rounded officers equipped with the knowledge and skills required to tackle the challenges of modern policing.

Among the dignitaries present were Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, Minister of Police Affairs Ibrahim Geidam, the chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Police Affairs, Makki Yalleman, and the chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Ahmed Malam-Madori.

Other notable attendees included Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President) Ibrahim Hadejia, and Special Adviser to the President on General Duties Aliyu Modibbo.

The federal government has introduced a one-time fee of N50 on electronic transfers exceeding N10,000 into personal and business accounts on Opay.

In a notice sent to customers on Saturday, Opay announced that the new charge, which complies with Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) regulations, will take effect from September 9, 2024.

“Dear valued customers, please be informed that starting September 9, 2024, a one-time fee of N50 will be applied for electronic transfer of N10,000 and above paid into your personal or business account in compliance with the Federal Inland Revenue Service regulations,” the statement read.

Opay clarified that this fee is not for its own benefit but is imposed as part of government requirements.

“It is important to note that Opay does not benefit from these charges in any way as it is directed entirely to the federal government,” the notice added.

Abuja – Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, has announced that he is taking an indefinite leave of absence to address urgent medical concerns affecting his immediate family.

In a memo submitted to the Chief of Staff to the President on Friday, Ngelale explained that the difficult decision came after extensive consultations with his family. The worsening health situation at home has compelled him to step back from his duties to focus on his family’s well-being.

Chief Ngelale holds several key roles in the administration, including his position as the Official Spokesperson of the President, Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen. While expressing an understanding that “the ship of state waits for no man,” Ngelale emphasized the necessity of this temporary pause to manage the crisis.

He added that he looks forward to resuming his national service duties when circumstances allow. He also appealed for privacy for his family during this challenging time.

Chief Ngelale’s leave comes at a time of heightened national and international engagement on issues such as climate action, with Nigeria playing an active role on the global stage.

Abeokuta – A devastating accident occurred early Thursday morning in Kemta Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Ogun State, when a vehicle driven by suspected Yahoo boys plowed into a 24-year-old woman and her one-year-old daughter on a pedestrian walkway.

The collision resulted in the tragic death of the child, while the mother, identified as Ogunbunmi Rukayat, is in critical condition.

Reports indicate that the vehicle, a grey Lexus ES350 with the registration number APP429JN, was being driven recklessly by a group of intoxicated young men.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, stating that the car lost control and veered off the road, striking the pedestrians. Rukayat, who was carrying her baby Sekiniat on her back, was rendered unconscious by the impact, and Sekiniat was pronounced dead at the scene.

Eyewitnesses have recounted the horrifying details of the incident, noting that the car’s occupants appeared to be drinking before the crash. “I took a photo of the cloth the woman used to carry her baby, stained with the child’s blood, to document what happened,” one witness shared.

The Police Public Relations Officer in Ogun State, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the incident and provided details of the police response. “Our officers from the Kemta Police Station arrived promptly at the scene, located opposite Rejoice Supermarket in Idi-Aba. They found three severely injured individuals: Ogunbunmi Rukayat (24), her daughter Sekiniat (1), and Adeola Olufolake Elizabeth (60),” Odutola said.

“The driver of the Lexus, 27-year-old Ishola Qudus, reportedly lost control of the vehicle, which subsequently overturned. Qudus, believed to be an inexperienced driver, attributed the accident to a loss of control. He was accompanied by three passengers—Azeez Adesanya, Olamide Oyedola, and Suliman Ogundele—who sustained minor injuries”.

“Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Sekiniat was declared dead upon arrival at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Abeokuta. Rukayat and Elizabeth are receiving intensive medical treatment. Ishola Qudus has been taken to Aro Psychiatric Hospital for a toxicology test to determine whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the accident”.

“We will provide further updates as the investigation progresses,” Odutola added.

Ondo State – In a bid to strengthen governance and improve service delivery, Governor Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has announced the appointment of 28 new Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and 316 Special Assistants (SAs) for Ondo State.

According to a statement signed by Ebenezer Adeniran, Chief Press Secretary to the Ondo State Governor, said the appointments span across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas, 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), and 203 Wards, reflect the Governor’s commitment to fostering efficient administration and community engagement.

The newly appointed Senior Special Assistants include Hon. Omotayo Abidakun, Hon. Akintoye Albert, Akindele Adeniyi, Hon. Folawe Sipasi, Micheal Bolodeoku, Hon. Isiaka Elegberunibon, Chief Ladi Tenabe, Barr. Folajimi Olasehinde Vicente, Bar. Clement Kolapo Ojo, and Hon. Sola Oluyeide.

Other notable appointees are Solomon Elefola, Barr. Ajimotokin Olusegun, Ewatomilola Emiola, Akinrotoye Olafusi Kehinde, and Hon. Olamigoke Busayo Francis.

The list continues with Adesemoye Adedapo Olaseinde, Mrs. Morenikeji Alaga, Alex Oladimeji, Olowujuni Shedrack, Nicholas Akinbiola, and Hon. Solomon Adejare Adeyefa, among others.

Among the new Special Assistants are Sola Neri, Hon. Olaniyi Eni-Olotu, Adeolu Iwakun, Hon. Makinde Olanrewaju, Omotayo Vincent Olibamoyo, Hon. Bunmi Olawoye, Mrs. Ronke Tashilani, Hon. Idebi Michael, and Alhaja Rafat Ahmed.

The appointments also include Hon. Najeem Adegboye, Mr. Fadoju Sunday Olaniyi, Dr. Ademola Adegboye, Aliu Olalekan, Robert Akinkunmi, Felix Esan, Sola Adegbola, Toyin Benson, and Oloruntoba Michael Sunkanmi.

Additional names include Bosede Sama, Hon. Shola Alajo, Rabiu Oluwasegun Kayode, Abegunde Tayo, Omolayo Tope, Olasunkanmi Akinrogbe, Oladimeji Olanrewaju, Olabode Animasahun, and Mrs. Olayinka O. Anunobi, among others.

Governor Aiyedatiwa congratulated the appointees and emphasized the importance of leveraging their experience to serve the people effectively.

• Tinubu Emphasizes Importance of Tough Choices for National Advancement

• Addresses Nigerians in China Amid Fuel Price Hike, Inflation

• Nigerians Abroad Urged to Contribute to National Development

Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed the recent increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, during his speech at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People on September 5, 2024.

The President, who spoke to Nigerians residing in China, framed the petrol price hike and other reforms by his administration as essential steps toward Nigeria’s economic growth.

In his address, Tinubu highlighted the necessity of taking bold and unprecedented actions to achieve meaningful development. “Nigeria is going through reforms, and we are taking very bold and unprecedented decisions. For example, you might have been hearing from home in the last few days about fuel prices,” presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale quoted Tinubu as saying.

He further explained, “What is the critical part to get us there if we cannot take hard decisions to pave the way for a country that is blessed and so talented? The more you want everything free, it will become more expensive and long-delayed to achieve meaningful development.”

The price of petrol was increased to N855 at retail outlets by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on Tuesday, leading to long queues at filling stations.

This decision has been met with criticism from various Nigerians and groups demanding a reversal, amid ongoing petrol scarcity and worsening inflation.

Defending the decision, Tinubu emphasized the importance of tough choices for economic prosperity. “But, can we help it? Can we develop good roads like you have here? You see electricity being constant in quantity and quality. You see water supply, constant and running, and you see their good schools. And we say we want to hand over a banner without stain to our children?”

He also noted the role of Nigerians abroad in contributing to the nation’s development. “So many of you are so talented, speaking very fluent Mandarin. It is what you contribute and tell them at home that will reflect in the attitude of our people.”

The President acknowledged the challenges in achieving national consensus but reaffirmed his commitment to making tough decisions for the country’s advancement.

“One economic action leads to another, and it is in your hand to build our nation. Mine is to provide the leadership, and I am committed to doing just that. We are focused, and I have a very good team,” Tinubu concluded.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Anambra State has announced plans to start arresting drivers and impounding vehicles lacking speed limit devices.

The FRSC sector commander, Joyce Alexander, revealed this decision at a news conference in Awka on Friday.

Alexander pointed out that most road crashes in the state are caused by speed violations, leading to tyre bursts and loss of control.

She emphasized that the enforcement is essential due to reckless driving, vehicle overloading, and the transportation of people, animals, and goods without regard for safety.

“The policy thrust of the new Corps Marshal is to rejig operations, reassess and reevaluate them for better performance in Anambra. I want to put FRSC on a central map in Anambra, create impact, and reduce road crashes and disobedience to traffic rules. We will commence minimal enforcement to achieve this. Motorists have been mandated to fix speed limit devices but some have not complied. We will start arresting defaulters and make them pay fines. We will insist they install the device before we release their vehicles,” Alexander said.

A joint taskforce will be formed in collaboration with other agencies to manage road congestion and maintain order during the ‘Ember’ months. The FRSC will also work with the media to enhance public awareness of traffic regulations.

“We will be working with the state government to ensure the roads are motorable, obstructions removed, and road signs installed in appropriate areas. The endgame is to have a situation where road users arrive at their destinations alive and safe,” Alexander added.

Deputy corps commander Jude Nnamani urged the public to cooperate with the FRSC to help reduce crashes in the state.

Lagos State has secured the 6th position among the world’s best cities for nightlife in 2024, according to Time Out Magazine.

The city outranked major destinations like Rotterdam in the Netherlands and Manchester in the United Kingdom.

The top five cities ahead of Lagos include Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Manila (Philippines), Berlin (Germany), Guadalajara (Mexico), and Austin, Texas (USA).

Time Out Magazine, a global publication covering 333 cities in 59 countries, shared the ranking. Established in 1968, the magazine initially focused on London before expanding worldwide.

Reacting to the announcement, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, expressed that the ranking reflects the various efforts of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

According to Omotoso, the governor has focused on key initiatives in tourism, entertainment, and security, creating an environment that allows Lagos’ nightlife to flourish.

“Lagos is the 6th best city globally for nightlife, according to Time Out Magazine’s 2024 Outlook,” Omotoso stated on social media.

He credited the governor’s investments in technology, transportation, security, and more as contributing factors. “A Greater Lagos is Rising,” he added.

Nightlife plays a significant role in Lagos’ economy. A report by Statistica Research Department forecasts that Lagos will contribute approximately 3.4 billion USD to Nigeria’s GDP by 2026, a sharp increase from 2 billion USD in 2016. In January 2024, Lagos was also ranked the 19th best city to visit globally, surpassing cities like Dubai and Miami.

Statistica Research Department is a team of over 200 experts analyzing data across 160 countries and 80,000 topics.

The Nigeria Police have clarified that President Bola Tinubu did not extend the tenure of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, amid growing speculation following his reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60 on September 4.

In a statement issued on Friday, the police noted that President Tinubu upheld the existing laws governing the Inspector General’s office, as required by the constitution.

The controversy arose due to reports that suggested Tinubu had granted a tenure extension to Egbetokun, particularly after a letter from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, was circulated.

The police, however, stated that Egbetokun’s appointment letter already grants him a four-year term, starting from the date of his appointment.

This was confirmed by Force Spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, who explained that the appointment adheres to the provisions of Section 215(a) and Section 28(c) of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended).

Adejobi said, “The attention of the Nigeria Police Force has been drawn to various misleading reports and misinterpretations concerning the tenure of the Inspector General of Police, and wishes to categorically state that what President Bola Tinubu approved for the IGP is not an extension of tenure, but rather the proper application of the law governing the tenure of the office of the IGP.

“Contrary to the misinformation being circulated on social media and in the news, an appointment letter in circulation was issued to the IGP shortly after his appointment was confirmed by the Police Council. This letter, dated 3rd November 2023, clearly stated that the President had approved a four-year tenure for the IGP in accordance with the provisions of Section 215(a) and Section 28(c) of the Third Schedule of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).”

Adejobi stated that the IG does not need to lobby for any tenure extension as he has yet to use the years stated in his. appointment letter.

He said, “It is important to emphasize that the IGP does not need to lobby for any tenure extension as his appointment letter explicitly grants him a four-year tenure from the date of his appointment. The ongoing circulation of false information is the handiwork of pessimists and mischief makers who are determined to spread baseless narratives against the office and the personality of the IGP for obvious reasons and pecuniary gains.”

The spokesman also stated that the IG had been given another letter in accordance with the provisions of the Police Act, 2020 (as amended), which supersedes his appointment letter.

He said, “Furthermore, the IGP has since been issued with another letter in accordance with the provisions of the Police Act, 2020 (as amended), which supersedes the earlier correspondence. This clarification is necessary to put an end to the speculations and falsehoods being spread.

“We urge the public to disregard the unfounded reports and to trust that the tenure of the IGP is in full compliance with the laws governing the Nigeria Police Force. In clear terms, the IGP’s tenure of office is not subject to unnecessary debate and should not be a source of perennial distraction to the policing system in Nigeria. The law is sacrosanct.”

The retirement of police officers, according to the Police Act, is set at either the age of 60 or after 35 years of service. While there has been a push to amend the retirement age within the Police Act, the proposed changes have not been fully enacted. Though the National Assembly passed the bill, it has yet to be signed into law by President Tinubu.

This delay in amending the retirement age fueled speculation, but the police have now confirmed that there is no extension to the IG’s tenure beyond what is already outlined by law.

Tunji Bello, a seasoned public servant and long-time associate of President Bola Tinubu, has shed light on the challenges the president faces in translating his past successes as Lagos governor to the national stage.

Bello, who now serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), highlighted the complexities of leading Nigeria as a vastly different task from governing a state.

Speaking during an interview on Inside Sources, a Channels Television programme hosted by Laolu Akande, Bello pointed to the “monumental challenges” Tinubu inherited upon assuming office, suggesting these are significant reasons why the president’s widely praised governance style in Lagos hasn’t yet fully materialized at the federal level.

“In Lagos, he did wonders and people expected the same at the national level. But Nigeria is a different entity, filled with complexities that don’t exist at the state level,” Bello remarked.

He noted that the federal system, particularly the principle of Federal Character—which requires balanced representation of Nigeria’s regions—poses a significant hurdle for Tinubu, one he didn’t face during his time as governor. “He can’t just transplant what worked in Lagos to the national level without adjustments,” Bello said.

However, Bello defended Tinubu’s performance so far, stating that despite overwhelming issues—ranging from infrastructure deficits to fuel crises, insecurity, and labor unrest—the president is navigating the turbulent waters and showing promise. “He’s done well under the circumstances, but adjustments are needed in some areas. Still, he’s demonstrated that he listens to the people and is focused on their needs,” Bello said.

The FCCPC boss also urged patience, expressing confidence that Nigerians will begin to see significant progress in the coming years. “No leader can do it all in one year. In the next two or three years, we will witness major improvements,” he assured.

On a separate note, Bello addressed the role of his agency, the FCCPC, in curbing exploitative practices by traders across Nigeria. According to him, traders have blamed poor infrastructure, inflation, and insecurity for price hikes, but Bello warned against using such reasons to justify price gouging. “While we are not against profit-making, profiteering is unacceptable and will be met with severe penalties,” he emphasized.

Bello revealed that his agency has begun engaging with traders nationwide, starting in Abuja, and is prepared to impose fines of up to billions of naira, alongside market closures, on those found guilty of exploiting consumers. He encouraged the public to report such practices to the FCCPC, stressing that collaboration between citizens and the agency is key to addressing the issue.

“We need Nigerians to come forward with information, so we can take action and protect consumers from exploitation,” Bello urged.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has addressed concerns over the timing of the result declaration for the 2023 presidential election, which took place eighteen months ago.

Recall that President Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, was announced as the winner with 8,794,726 votes, defeating Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party (LP) candidate Peter Obi, and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The result declaration, made by INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu at approximately 2 a.m. on March 1, 2023, raised questions among some Nigerians about why it was done during the early hours rather than in the daytime.

Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, explained that Nigeria is treated as a single constituency during presidential elections, making the collation of results a time-consuming process.

He emphasized that the electoral process involves waiting for results from polling units, wards, local governments, and states, all of which must be presented at the national level in Abuja.

“The Chairman had to wait for 36 returning officers, including those from far locations such as Sokoto and Maiduguri, to present their results as mandated by law,” Oyekanmi stated.

He further clarified that neither the Constitution nor the Electoral Act stipulates a specific time for announcing election results.

“In a presidential election, the country is treated as one constituency. Results are declared at polling units and then collated at the ward, local government, and state levels before being presented in Abuja to the Chief Electoral Commissioner. People didn’t understand this and criticised the 2 a.m. announcement,” he said.

Oyekanmi also highlighted that the INEC Chairman must personally interview the returning officers, questioning them and potentially sending them back if their reports are unsatisfactory.

He added: “Only after accepting all figures from the returning officers and the FCT can results be collated and announced. The delay led to claims that we declared results in the middle of the night.”

Referencing a similar occurrence in 2015, he noted: “Prof. Attahiru Jega declared the 2015 results around 4 a.m. The constitution does not prescribe a specific time for declaring election results.”