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Tension, food prices rise as hunger protest begins today
Prices of foodstuff have again gone up in major markets across the country as Nigerians engaged in panic buying in a bid to stock their homes before the planned nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest begin today.
This comes as last-ditch moves by the Federal Government to stop the protest failed to arrest the momentum generated by the organisers, who insisted the protest would go on as planned.
The protest organisers want an improvement in the soaring cost of living and a reversal of some harsh government policies, particularly the removal of petrol subsidy.
The subsidy removal, along with ongoing security issues in farming regions, has led to increased transportation costs and subsequent food inflation.
In a late rally to stop the demonstration, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Wednesday, addressed an emergency press conference where he again admonished Nigerians to shun the proposed protest.
Other top officials also pleaded for the suspension of the protest, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Atiku Bagudu (Budget and Planning), Wale Edun (Economy) and presidential media aide, Bayo Onanuga, among others.
They reeled out all the people-oriented policies and programmes implemented by the Tinubu government and sought the understanding of Nigerians.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, also invited journalists for an urgent press conference at the force headquarters.
Also, the National Assembly held a plenary on Wednesday after cutting its recess short.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, addressed youths at a hastily convened town hall meeting at the National Assembly Complex, where he reiterated his appeal to the protest organisers to embrace dialogue with the Federal Government to find solutions to the hardship in the country.
The SGF in his remarks said the government recognised the right to protest but was wary of the planned protests being hijacked “by bandits, insurgents and other criminals.”
He added, “We, therefore, appeal to Nigerians of whatever persuasion, belief, demography, gender and status to shun calls for protests against hunger by prioritising peace and progress.
“For avoidance of doubt, the government of President Tinubu recognises the right to peaceful protest but circumspection and vigilance should be our watchword.
“The government is wary of the dangers associated with protests that are vulnerable to being hijacked by bandits, insurgents and other criminals. Rather, we request that dialogue should be advanced and we remain open to such.
“Our appeal is that Nigerians should please pursue the path of peace, dialogue and collaboration in addressing the challenges that collectively confront us.”
Akume outlined some interventions of the Tinubu-led administration in the 14 months since its inauguration on May 29, 2024, stating that the country was undergoing refining and recalibration and that economic growth remained a goal of the Federal Government.
“Within a space of 14 months of purposeful leadership, the administration has recorded tremendous accomplishments that laid the foundation for immediate, medium and long-term prosperity of Nigerians, in an inclusive manner.
‘’Mr. President approved a Wage Award of N35,000 for a period of six months to cushion the effect on workers. This award was higher than the minimum wage.
“Mr President has just signed into law a new National Minimum Wage Act which prescribed N70,000. This represents more than 100 per cent increase from the last minimum wage (N30,000) and takes retroactive effect from April.”
He added, “As part of the efforts of the FG to take development to the grassroots, the government approached the Supreme Court for a decision on the funding of LGAs in Nigeria. The favourable judgement has now set the LGA on the path to its financial and development autonomy.
“For the first time in our nation, the President created a stand-alone Ministry for the Youth that accounts for a large percentage of our population. Under the N35 billion Nigerian Education Loan Fund, approved beneficiaries have exceeded the 40,000 mark of the expected 70,000 beneficiaries.”
Afraid the protest might turn violent and restrict movement, following government’s failed move to stop it, panicky Nigerians stormed markets on Wednesday for last minute grocery shopping, to the delight of traders, who hiked prices of their food items.
“From the news, it appears this protest may not just be another rally. So, I came here to buy food and stock my home for, at least, two weeks. In case the protest goes beyond the stipulated time, my family and I would have something to eat,” Mrs Adeyinka Fakunle told one of our correspondents at Balogun Market, Lagos Island, on Wednesday.
Checks by our correspondents in the last two days showed that food items like rice, beans, yams, garri and noodles had again gone up about the fourth time in 2024 alone.
The PUNCH reports that the impending protest had dominated discussions in the past couple of weeks, with officials in government, urging youths to rather dialogue than stage the protest, noting the possibility of the protests being hijacked by hoodlums and miscreants.
Abuja
At the Garki International Market in Abuja, a 50kg bag of foreign rice, which previously sold for about N79,000 now sold for between N86,000 and N90,000. Yams which only a few weeks ago sold for N5,000 per tuber, sold for N7,000 per tuber and N28,000 for a set of 5.
A mudu (local measure of eight cups) of beans, previously sold for between N2,000 and N2,500, now sells for N3,500 while a mudu of garri, previously N1,300, sold between N1,400 and N1,500. A carton of Indomie noodles previously sold at N7,500 has gone up to N7,700 while a basket of Irish potatoes, sold previously at between N5,000 and N5,500, now sells for N6,000 per basket.
While some traders say they had to increase the prices of food products due to the cost price at depots and places where they purchased the items, others highlighted the difficulty in transporting the products to the market and the scarcity of some of the food items.
A trader, Cynthia Ogu, who sells food items, said, “For instance, I don’t sell eggs in bits anymore. I sell an entire crate, at N4,600. If I sell single, I may sell short. The Indomie (noodles) used to be N7,500. I buy at that amount but I have to make gains somehow, that’s why there is an extra N200. The Super Pack is N17,000 now. And I don’t give a discount; it used to be about N15,000. So, this is why the price is high.”
A visit to the Bwari market on Tuesday equally revealed significant price hikes; with a mudu of white beans selling for N2,600, up from the previous N2,500. Other varieties of beans were however sold for N2,800 and N3,000.
Musa Auwal, an onion seller, sold three onion bulbs for N500, a price that has left customers like Ojoniko Sunday concerned.
Meanwhile, a small bowl of Irish potatoes sold for N7,000, while new yams sold for N4,000 each. The cost of pepper had also risen, with a small basket of red pepper selling for N1,300.
Meanwhile, the Abuja Market Management Limited had over the weekend urged traders and market users to protect the markets from infiltrators who may want to cause mayhem while urging them not to participate in the protests.
In a statement on Sunday, the Acting Managing Director, AMML, Abbas Yakubu, stated, “Abuja Markets Management Limited has urged traders and other Market users in the Federal Capital Territory to support its effort and that of the Security Agencies in ensuring that the market is not infiltrated by people of ignoble intentions in the guise of peaceful protest.
“We have a history of protests and other incidents cascading into wanton destruction of properties in our markets; no responsible Management or trader will fold its hand and wait for it to repeat. That is why we are urging you all to mobilize your fellow traders, the wheelbarrow pushers, your apprentices, and everyone who has legitimate business in the markets, to resist any attempt at infiltrating the market by hoodlums in the guise of protest.”
Funds for food
Some residents of Ogun and Kwara states, who spoke to our correspondents, complained of insufficient funds to stock their homes following the spike in prices.
A market research conducted by one of our correspondents in Ilorin, the state capital, showed that residents had the intention stocking their homes with foodstuff but lacked the financial capacity.
“I was given N13,000 by my husband to buy guinea corn and yam for our family, but what I met in the market is shocking, six tubers of small yam were sold for N10,000 while a tin of guinea corn costs N3,500. The amount of food I bought for our family of 11 with the money I had cannot last more than three days”, a housewife, Musilimatu Onikoko, lamented.
Residents of Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, also rued the hike in food prices, saying it skyrocketed by 50 per cent, leaving them in a state of economic disarray in the face of the imminent protest.
A resident, Mrs Ukamaka Oleh, said, “As we prepare for the hunger protest, the cost of food items have increased in the markets. This is because what we used to buy with N5000 or N10,000 is now what we spend over N15,000 to buy today.”
In Asaba, the Delta State capital, residents also decried their inability to stock their homes for the upcoming protest following the soaring prices of food item.
An artisan, Uche Ijeh, said, “Most of us depend on our daily incomes and we find it difficult to buy foodstuff, where are we going to get money to stock our houses with food?
Ahead of the #EndBadGovernance protest, many Lagos residents, on Wednesday, stormed food markets in their areas to stock their homes.
In Lagos, markets were unusually crowded with buyers, who were afraid the protest might linger and hinder them from buying fresh supplies.
Some traders at the popular Iyana-Iba market on Wednesday said a large number of their customers had been buying foodstuffs in preparation for today’s protest.
A trader, who sells spaghetti, seasonings and other packed foodstuffs, Mrs Ngozi Okezie, said, “I have had customers from morning and they told me they wanted to have food at home before the protest began.”
During a visit to Kpeti market in Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State by one of our correspondents, residents bought food items in large quantities amid security presence, which a seller at the market, who identified herself simply as Madam Beauty, described as “unusual.”
“We used to have just few policemen at the entrance to the market but today (Wednesday) there were lots of soldiers, so many of them,” she added.
Although, major markets in the state did not open for transactions on Monday, due to the sit-at-home order, smaller markets in Anambra State, which opened, witnessed a large number of buyers and sellers.
At the Relief Market in Onitsha, a buyer, Chidi Okonkwo, said, “I would have bought more foodstuff and medical supplies for the home. It’s unfortunate that the prices of foodstuff have skyrocketed in the past few days. I urge other families to stockpile food and drugs in their homes to take care of any emergencies during the protest.”
Meanwhile, as plans for the rally reached a climax, the police allegedly confiscated banners and printed materials produced by the Take It Back Movement, one of the organisers of the rally.
The National Coordinator of the group, Tunde Mohammed, said policemen from Abuja command also arrested the printer, Possible Odeh, and a member of the movement on Tuesday.
Mohammed said the two men were still in police custody.
He said, “It happened at 6pm yesterday (Tuesday). Policemen from the FCT command went to where we were printing our banners and placards. They arrested the printer and the man who took the job there. They were handcuffed. They also took away three computers and other gadgets.
“We are not discouraged, not at all. We are set for tomorrow (today) and there are arrangements to bail them.”
Meanwhile, several state governors also made last-ditch efforts to convince the protesters against going ahead with the planned demonstration.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called on the organisers to shelve their plans and embrace dialogue with the government for their concerns to be addressed.
In a 20-minute address on Wednesday at the Governor’s Office in Alausa, Sanwo-Olu said there was no need for the protest.
He said, “No true Lagosian or friend of Lagos will encourage us to go this route again. That is not who we are; that is not our way and style. Let us not allow our city to be plunged into chaos again. Let us work together to build a Lagos that is safe, secure, and prosperous for all. Our strength lies in our unity, and our future depends on our collective efforts to maintain peace and stability.
“We are actively engaging with various stakeholders to find solutions that promote justice, equality, and fairness. It is through constructive dialogue, not destructive protests, that we can achieve meaningful change. Let us show the world that Lagos remains a city of resilience, where the voices of its people are heard and respected through peaceful and lawful means. Let us reject any attempt to throw the State into violence.”
Sanwa-Olu’s Taraba counterpart State, Agbu Kefas, urged inhabitants of the state to shun the protest and support the government to serve them better.
To pacify the youths, Kefas announced the establishment of the Taraba State Education Trust Fund, designed to support all students in federal universities, and other tertiary institutions in the country in addition to the free and compulsory education policy of his administration.
The governor said, “In a bid to control the outflow of farm produce from the state, measures will be put in place to ensure that local farmers benefit more from their labour and government will control how food produce leaves the state.
“Soon, we will be embarking on a comprehensive remodelling of all government primary and secondary schools in the state, which will not only improve education but also create job and entrepreneurship opportunities for youths.
“We understand the importance of mental health and tomorrow I will release names of a committee on mental health and wellbeing to address the mental health challenges facing the residents particularly young people suffering from depression. The government is committed to supporting them to recover and overcome.”
The Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, appealed to Kano residents to boycott the protest.
“I urge those, who desire to exercise their human rights to protest to refrain from any form of conduct that could be exploited by agents of destruction. We have received credible intelligence reports that certain disgruntled individuals are recruiting thugs to incite trouble in the state.
“I assure you that the government will not tolerate such actions. Instead, I extend an invitation to those, who wish to demonstrate to come to the Government House, where I will be happy to listen to their grievances and engage them in constructive dialogue,’’ he stated.
In the same vein, Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, asked residents of the state to refrain from the nationwide protest.
Addressing Ebonyi youths on Wednesday during a stakeholders/youths meeting, the governor observed the negative aftermath of protests in recent times, urging them to rethink.
He said, “I am aware of the planned protest against hunger and bad governance scheduled to take place across the country, including Ebonyi State. While I understand the reasons and concerns that have led to this call to action, I strongly urge you all to refrain from participating in this protest.
“As your governor, my administration is committed to addressing the challenges we face, and we are working tirelessly to improve the lives of our citizens.
“However, protests can often lead to unintended consequences, including violence, destruction of property, and disruption of essential services.”
“Instead, I invite you to engage with us through constructive dialogue and peaceful channels such as today’s event. We have established these mechanisms for feedback and complaints, and we are always willing to listen to your concerns.”
In readiness for the street demonstration, the security agencies have continued to deploy operatives across the country.
On Wednesday, soldiers, policemen and operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Department of State Security moved through the streets in Osogbo, Osun State, in a show of strength.
A long convoy of about 20 trucks conveyed the armed operatives along Odi-Olowo Street through Isale Osun to Old Garage end of Osogbo.
The Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, said the exercise was to send a signal to anyone planning to foment trouble during the protest.
“It is part of the preparation for tomorrow’s (today) protest. We want to send a signal to anyone who may plan to hijack the protest that we are ready to rise to the occasion and protect lives and properties.”
The security agencies in Kaduna State also conducted a show of force operation on Wednesday to deter potential troublemakers.
No fewer than 2, 500 personnel comprising the police, soldiers and other operatives were said to have been deployed in strategic flashpoints across the state.
The state Commissioner of Police, Audu Dabigi, in a statement issued at the end of the exercise by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mansir Hassan, said the show of force was meant to warn individuals with malicious intent against disrupting the peace of the state.
“We will not deny citizens their constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest, but we will not tolerate any form of violence or disruption,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Osun State NSCDC commandant, Michael Adaralewa, has directed all area commanders and divisional heads in the command to ensure adequate protection of lives and property, especially critical national assets.
Adaralewa, who spoke at a meeting he held with the 67 Divisional officers and nine area commanders, heads of departments and units under his command, urged the protesters to respect the rights of those that would not join the demonstration and refrain from act that could put public peace in jeopardy.
“As you are aware, protection of Critical national assets and infrastructure is one of the core mandates of the corps, hence the state command has deployed 2,050 personnel to provide adequate security of lives and property.
“The personnel deployed for this important assignment have been briefed accordingly. The personnel will conduct themselves in a manner that respects fundamental human rights, upholds the dignity of all individuals, and follows international best practices,” Adaralewa said.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, urged the protesters to obey the court order restricting protesters to the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota and Peace Park, Ketu.
He said, “My expectation is that the protest will be largely peaceful and we will perform our normal duty of ensuring that the general area is peaceful, devoid of any violence, and Lagos residents are allowed to go about their normal duties while the protesters are also given adequate protection to carry out their protest.
“A court order has even made it very easy for us. Protesters have been asked to converge on the popular Freedom and Peace parks, so, we will be there in large numbers to give them security coverage.”
In another twist, a Kwara Magistrate Court has ordered the organisers of the protest to restrict themselves to the Metropolitan Square in Ilorin, the state capital.
Granting an exparte order on Wednesday, the Chief Magistrate, Jibril Bio Salihu, said he agreed with the Attorney-General of the state and Commissioner for Justice, Senior Ibrahim Sulyman, that the protest could degenerate into violence if protesters were allowed to do as they wished.
The respondents in the case are the Director State Security Service, Kwara State; Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command; Commandant, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps; Take it Back Movement; Buhari Olanrewaju Ahmed and other unknown persons.
“After listening to Senior Ibrahim Sulyman Esq., Attorney General of Kwara State, the applicant herein and after a careful perusal of the 5 paragraphs affidavit as well as the written address in support of the motion ex-parte, the following orders are hereby granted,” according to the order signed by Chief Magistrate (DCR Litigation) Jibril Bio Salihu.
“An order of interim injunction restraining the 4th-6th respondents whether by themselves, agents, privies, servants or any other person(s) acting through them to converge, carry, conduct any act or form of their proposed peaceful public protest, rallies, processions and or meetings in any other place other than Metropolitan Square/Asa Dam Road, Kwara State in the interest of the general public for a period of 7 days, effective from the 1st August, 2024.
“It is also ordered that the 1st-3rd respondents are directed to provide adequate security for the protection of lives and properties of all citizens and residents of Kwara State, as well as the infrastructure provided by the Kwara State Government against the 4th-6th respondents act, protest, or any form of protest for a period of 7days effective from the 1st August, 2024 or any other day pending the determination of the motion on notice.
“It is also ordered that all the court processes filed in respect of this suit be served on the 4th-6th respondents by pasting same at the High Court of Justice premises.”
The court adjourned further hearings in the case to 14th of August, 2024.
In a statement on Wednesday, Adegboruwa stated, “The courage of the organisers of the Hunger and End Bad Governance Protests is commendable. They have demonstrated great zeal and commitment, highlighting the dire situation many Nigerians face daily.”
He criticized the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, particularly the removal of the oil subsidy and currency devaluation, which he argued have worsened the country’s economic crisis.
“No one can deny the fact of hunger, occasioned by galloping food inflation, in which we now buy a tuber of yam for N10,000,” he noted, pointing out that other staple foods like garri, rice, eggs, bread and beans have become unaffordable for the common people.
He also accused the government of engaging in ethnic and religious rhetoric to deflect criticism, stating, “The propaganda machinery of government has failed in these past days, in the face of the biting hunger and mass suffering.”
Adegboruwa called on Tinubu to address the nation’s economic challenges head-on and reconsider the recent policy changes.
“The twin policies of oil subsidy removal and currency devaluation have crippled the economy and thrown Nigeria into its worst economic crisis. They should be reversed immediately,” he urged.
He also criticised the lavish spending by government officials, citing the purchase of a new jet for the President and the renovation of the Vice President’s house for N21bn as examples of mismanagement.
Addressing the security forces, Adegboruwa emphasised the importance of protecting the rights of protesters.
“The law recognises the right to peaceful protests. Let no single bullet be fired, let there be no arbitrary and unlawful arrests, and let there be no deployment of the military. The protesters are our children and our own citizens. They certainly do not deserve bullets and crackdowns,” he declared.
Adegboruwa acknowledged the moral victory of the organisers, evidenced by the government’s reaction since the protests were announced.
Meanwhile, a civil society organisation, World Institute for Peace, announced its withdrawal from the protest on Wednesday.
Addressing journalists in Osogbo on Wednesday, the Executive Director of the group, Lamina Omotoyosi, said, “As a stakeholder, we cannot afford to experience the previous massive destruction of life and property that came on the heels of the hijacked #EndSARS protest of 2020.
“With regards to the above development and dangerous trend, we want to announce our withdrawal from the planned protest scheduled to start tomorrow, Thursday, August 1, 2024. This withdrawal will affect our youths and student peace advocates cells across Nigeria, and most especially Osun State, the cradle of South West.”
New information has come to light regarding the recent visit of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, a prominent Niger Delta activist and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, to former President Goodluck Jonathan at his residence in Otuoke, in the Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, on Friday.
The discussions centered decisively on the 2027 presidential election, where Jonathan is expected to challenge President Bola Tinubu robustly.
He was accompanied by the 2023 deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Hon. Joshua Maciver, and the the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services, High Chief Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, among others.
Jonathan told newsmen that he invited Tompolo over because of complaints by some people and to also discuss the sustenance of the peace in the Niger Delta region.
He said: “Since I left office, we have not seen. Tompolo is one young man that played key role in the unity of our people, but today’s visit, you know he is been handling this security issue in the Niger Delta and I remember as Vice president, I visited his camp to bring peace to the Niger Delta, and there are issues that people are complaining about, so I decided to call him so that we can have conversations along those lines. So that people will be carried along to make sure that the Niger Delta continues to be peaceful. That is why he came to see me.
“So I appreciate his visit, because he is somebody we appreciate. He has contributed significantly to the peace in the Niger Delta and the security of the oil installations.”
Tompolo has been indirectly involved in the forthcoming presidential election, which Jonathan is speculated to be considering.
An ally of Jonathan while in office, Tompolo is now seen to be aligning with President Bola Tinubu.
Recently, he was seen in a viral video encouraging Nigerians to vote for Tinubu in 2027.
Earlier in June, Comrade Sunday Adekanbi, the Protem National Coordinator of the PBAT Door-2-Door Movement, had announced Tompolo as the group’s grand patron, saying they aim to gather 10 million votes for Tinubu in 2027.
Recently, Tompolo was seen in a viral video encouraging Nigerians to vote for President Bola Tinubu during the 2027 elections, because, according to him, the president has done well.
In June, Comrade Sunday Adekanbi, the Protem National Coordinator of the PBAT Door-2-Door Movement, had announced Tompolo as the group’s grand patron, saying they aim to gather 10 million votes for Tinubu in 2027.
Despite Jonathan’s disclosure of the discussion with Tompolo and the reason for their meeting, there are unconfirmed reports that he came to persuade Jonathan against contesting in 2027.
A source, who wished to remain anonymous, disclosed that a prominent Niger Delta activist recently spoke with the former president about the upcoming 2027 election.
During their conversation, the activist encouraged him not to heed the calls from those urging him to challenge President Tinubu in the election. Instead, he advised Jonathan to avoid running and to focus on being a respected elder statesman both within Nigeria and beyond.
…Says No More Hiding Place For Criminals
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Wednesday, formally launched the Delta State Security Trust Fund and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous state through public-private partnership in security management.
The event, held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Asaba, brought together captains of industries, security chiefs, community leaders, and top government officials, including the Group Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, who chaired the occasion; Zenith Bank Founder and Chairman, Mr. Jim Ovia, CON, who served as Special Guest of Honour; and the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo who served as Chief Launcher with a donation of N10 billion.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Oborevwori said the Security Trust Fund established by law in 2013 was designed as a collaborative platform for mobilizing resources from the private sector to complement government’s investment in security.
He explained that the fund would focus on acquiring modern surveillance equipment, operational vehicles, and communication tools, as well as supporting the training and retraining of security personnel and community vigilante groups across the 25 local government areas of the state.
He said: “Security is not the sole responsibility of government, it is everyone’s business. Without adequate security, development cannot thrive, businesses cannot operate freely, and investors will be reluctant to commit their resources. This Trust Fund represents our shared commitment to peace, public safety, and sustainable growth.”
Governor Oborevwori said his administration rebranded Operation Delta Hawk as Operation Delta Sweep and as a joint task force involving the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps.
While noting that the synergy among these agencies had yielded significant results, including the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition from criminal elements, he outlined the government’s broader strategy for tackling the root causes of insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and youth restiveness through empowerment programmes, agricultural initiatives, and massive infrastructure renewal that have created thousands of jobs.
“Peace and security are better sustained when all citizens, especially women and youths, have opportunities to participate in economic growth,” he said.
The Governor said 0.5 percent of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is already allocated monthly to the Security Trust Fund, and appealed for sustained support from the private sector and individuals.
“Your contributions today are not just donations; they are investments in peace, stability, and economic prosperity,” he said, assuring that all funds would be transparently managed.
Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, described the launch as a defining moment in the state’s history and commended Governor Oborevwori’s leadership, which he said had transformed Delta into one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and progressive states. “Our Governor is both a driver and an enabler of progress,” he noted. “While others talk, he just gets it done,” he added.
Aig-Imoukhuede announced a personal donation of ₦100 million to the Fund on behalf of himself and his wife, Ofure, and expressed optimism that the initiative would mobilize up to ₦100 billion in 2025.
“This launch does not end today, it begins today. Together, we will continue to strengthen the foundation for Delta’s safety and growth,” he declared.
In his goodwill message, Mr. Jim Ovia commended the governor’s foresight and described the Security Trust Fund as a bold and forward-looking initiative.
He reaffirmed Zenith Bank’s partnership with the state and pledged continued support for its developmental efforts. “Security is the foundation of peace, prosperity, and business growth. This Fund brings together stakeholders to build a safer and more stable environment for citizens and investors alike,” Ovia said.
Also speaking, Chief Keston Pondi, who spoke on behalf of High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, lauded the governor for institutionalizing a framework that enables coordinated private-sector participation in tackling security challenges.
He said: “What we are launching today goes beyond a financial contribution, it is a strategic investment in peace, progress, and the protection of lives and property,” pledging Tantita’s full support for the initiative with a princely donation of N10 billion.
In his keynote address, a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Marvel Akpoyibo, emphasized that development and security were inseparable and must go hand in hand.
He commended the ongoing transformation of road networks in Delta State, describing it as a major contributor to safety and connectivity. Akpoyibo called for increased investment in technology, training, and collaboration among security stakeholders, stressing that true security could only be achieved through shared responsibility.
Earlier, Executive Secretary of the Delta State Security Trust Fund, Mr Samuel Osasa, said the launch was aimed at reinvigorating the fund to meet emerging security needs.
He disclosed that the Trust Fund had, over the years, provided vehicles, equipment, and support to security agencies, including the recent installation of modern facilities for the State Police Command to enhance implementation of the Delta State Criminal Justice Law 2022.
He appealed to corporate organizations, private institutions, and individuals to partner with the State Security Trust Fund through generous donations, assuring that all contributions would be judiciously utilized in accordance with the law.
The event featured goodwill messages, pledges of financial support from public and private entities, and renewed calls for collaboration toward ensuring lasting peace and security across Delta State.
…Says Project Symbolises Renewed Hope Partnership
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday, performed the groundbreaking for the reconstruction of the Warri–Sapele–Benin Dual Carriageway in Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Areas, declaring the project a symbol of renewed collaboration between the Federal and State Governments for the benefit of Nigerians.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Oborevwori said the project represented “another major step forward in the infrastructure renewal drive of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Delta State Government.”
He described the Warri–Sapele–Benin Road as a critical national infrastructure connecting major cities across the South-South and providing access to Edo and other parts of the federation.
“The section we are flagging off “covers a dual carriageway with reinforced concrete pavement, expanded shoulders, and extensive stormwater drainage systems, all designed to provide durability and ensure the safety of road users.”
Governor Oborevwori noted that the initiative underscored the gains of synergy between the two tiers of government, emphasizing that development becomes faster when governments work together in the interest of the people.
“Although this road is a federal route, the users are Deltans and Nigerians, and their safety and comfort are what matter most to us,” he said.
The governor further disclosed that the Delta State Government had paid ₦10 billion in compensation to facilitate the ongoing construction of the Second Niger Bridge access road project, aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity between Asaba, Onitsha, and adjoining communities.
He lamented the hardship long suffered by commuters and transporters on the Warri–Sapele–Benin route due to its deplorable condition, noting that the reconstruction would enhance mobility, reduce travel time, and spur economic growth.
He said: “Beyond these economic benefits, the project will also strengthen security. Criminals often exploit bad roads to commit crimes. Once completed, this highway will make movement safer and improve the response of security agencies.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Delta one of the safest states in Nigeria through strategic investments in infrastructure, peace, and security.
He also promised that the requests of the people of Uvwie Kingdom partaining the Mother and Child Hospital and provision of 500KVA transformer, would be looked into.
“At over sixty years of age, I am not here for personal gain but to leave lasting legacies that generations will remember me for. By the time I leave office, I want Deltans to proudly say, ‘Oborevwori did this, Oborevwori did that,’” he said before officially flagging off the project from Effurun Roundabout by spare parts market to after Ohore, before Ometan Bridge.
Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, said the project is the brainchild of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori whom he described as a visionary leader determined to transform Delta’s infrastructure landscape.
“This 10km project stretches five kilometres on each side and features an 8.8-metre-wide carriageway on both lanes, far beyond the standard 7.3 metres,” Izeze said, praising the governor’s foresight and commitment.
He said the project would be completed within 12 months, adding that the state would celebrate another landmark achievement that would enhance trade, transportation, and community life.
General Manager of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Engr. Thomas Feng, thanked Governor Oborevwori for the confidence reposed in the firm, promising to deliver the project in record time and to the highest standards.
“Today’s ceremony marks the beginning of a renewed era of infrastructure that will promote safer travel, stronger connectivity, and lasting economic growth for the people of Delta State,” Feng said.
Earlier, Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Chief Anthony Ofoni, flanked by his Okpe Local Government Council counterpart, commended the governor for his people-centred leadership and announced that the Airport Road in Effurun would be named as “Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori Way” in recognition of his vision and enduring legacy.
Also speaking, HRM Emmanuel Sideso, Abe I, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom and Chairman of the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers, lauded the governor’s administration for prioritizing key infrastructure projects in Uvwie and across the state.
He noted that ongoing works such as the three flyovers and road expansions in Effurun and Warri had transformed the urban landscape and accelerated economic activities.
Representative of the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Okakuro Mike Afe, joined in commending the governor for his developmental strides, praying for his successful completion of an eight-year tenure to consolidate the gains of the MORE Agenda.
The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and captains of industries, all of whom hailed the project as a beacon of renewed hope for the people of Delta and beyond.
The Founder and President of Atiba University Oyo, James Adesokan Ojebode, PhD, ALA(CSN) JP has expressed deep concern over reports that some Federal universities have allegedly refused to accept the recently released National Examinations Council (NECO) results from admission seekers.
In a statement issued in Oyo, Ojebode described the development as “unjust, discriminatory, and inconsistent with Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive and equitable education.” He lamented that many candidates who initially applied with Awaiting Results were later denied admission after NECO released their results — a situation he termed “a denial of the fundamental right to education and a reflection of administrative insensitivity.”
Ojebode therefore called on the Federal Ministry of Education, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and NECO to urgently intervene and ensure that all affected universities reopen their admission portals to allow candidates upload their results. He noted that “education must remain a tool for empowerment, not exclusion.”
He further emphasized that proper coordination among examination and admission bodies is crucial to maintaining the credibility of NECO, the integrity of Nigeria’s admission process, and the public’s confidence in the education system.
Atiba University Oyo
7th October, 2025.
Prophet Boris Jedidiah, a prominent cleric from Cameroon, has made a significant announcement regarding the upcoming 2027 presidential election in Nigeria.
He claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory is assured by divine intervention.
In a video that has gained widespread attention on his YouTube channel, the prophet asserted that he received a revelation from God indicating that no political opposition would be able to prevent Tinubu’s re-election. This statement has stirred considerable interest and discussion in political circles.
According to Jedidiah, “During the 2027 Nigerian presidential election, a governor who is presently governing a state of Nigeria is going to stand as a presidential candidate. But The Lord said to me that this governor is not going to become the president of Nigeria. His Excellency, Bola Tinubu, is going to be declared the president of Nigeria during the 2027 Nigerian presidential election.”
He further emphasized that any Nigerian governor or politician who rises against President Tinubu’s mandate would be acting against God’s divine purpose for the nation.
The prophecy has since attracted wide reactions on social media, with supporters of the president welcoming the message, while others questioned the growing trend of foreign clerics predicting Nigeria’s political future.
Nigeria’s next general elections, which will include the presidential and National Assembly polls, are scheduled for 2027.
The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO), Thursday approved key fiscal documents setting the stage for the preparation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill, alongside the construction of 10 new residential quarters for Judges across the state.
The State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, disclosed this while briefing journalists at the end of the EXCO meeting presided over by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, in Asaba.
Ekedayen said the Council considered and approved the economic fiscal update, fiscal policy strategy, and the budget policy statement, critical documents required by law and fundamental to the preparation of the 2026 budget.
He explained that; “before the commencement of any budget process, there must be a set of assumptions, and it is those assumptions that the Executive Council considered and approved today.
“The document will now be transmitted to the State House of Assembly for the enactment of the necessary laws to enable us commence the actual budget preparation.”
According to him, the assumptions for the 2026 fiscal year are aligned with national parameters agreed upon by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to ensure uniformity across states.
“This uniform basis will make it easier to integrate the budgets of sub-national governments into a national framework,” Ekedayen said.
He listed the key macroeconomic assumptions as follows: – Oil production: 1.7 million barrels per day; exchange rate: ₦1,500 to $1; GDP growth rate: 3.4%; Inflation rate: 23%.
He said these figures would guide the State’s Ministry of Economic Planning in designing the 2026 budget, which will subsequently pass through EXCO approval before being presented to the State House of Assembly.
“Today’s approval signals the beginning of the new budget season for Delta State,” he added.
Also briefing journalists, the State Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Godknows Angele, said EXCO approved the construction of 10 new judges’ quarters in Asaba, Warri, and Osubi as part of the administration’s commitment to the welfare of the judiciary.
“His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, believes in balancing all arms of government — the executive, legislature, and judiciary,” Angele said.
Angele said: “We already have commissioners’ and legislative quarters in Asaba. It was therefore necessary to provide befitting accommodation for our Judges.”
He explained that the project, approved as the first phase, will feature four-bedroom duplexes for 10 judges, five in Asaba and five in Warri/Osubi and designed for comfort and security within designated judicial residential clusters.
“This is a new construction and not renovation. It is part of our administration’s effort to ensure the judiciary functions in a conducive and secure environment,” Angele added.
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