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A groundbreaking study published in Nature Medicine reveals that sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) cause approximately 340,000 deaths annually from Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease worldwide.
The research, conducted by Tufts University's School of Nutrition Science and Policy, analyzed data from 184 countries over three decades. In 2020 alone, SSBs were associated with 2.2 million new Type 2 diabetes cases and 1.2 million cardiovascular disease cases, with developing regions bearing the heaviest burden.
Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America show particularly alarming trends. SSBs account for over 20% of new diabetes cases in Sub-Saharan Africa and nearly 24% in Latin America and the Caribbean. The impact is most severe in countries like Colombia, where sugary drinks are linked to 48% of new diabetes cases and 23% of cardiovascular disease cases.
Dariush Mozaffarian, the study's senior author, highlights how SSBs are aggressively marketed in low- and middle-income nations, where healthcare systems are often ill-equipped to handle the resulting health crisis. Young men appear especially vulnerable to these health impacts.
The researchers advocate for immediate action, including public health campaigns, advertising regulations, and taxation of sugary drinks. Some countries, like Mexico, have already implemented such measures.
In Africa, Nigeria stands out as the continent's largest soft drink consumer, with an annual consumption of 40 million litres. The country ranks fourth globally in soft drink consumption, following the United States, China, and Mexico. In response, Nigeria introduced a N10 per litre tax on sweetened drinks in 2021, with potential plans to double this rate.
SSBs include any liquid containing natural or added sweeteners, from soft drinks and juices to sweetened coffee, tea, energy drinks, and flavored dairy products. The study's findings underscore the urgent need for global intervention to address this growing public health crisis.
Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, has advocated for a 100% increase in tariffs to counter soaring operational costs driven by inflation and naira devaluation.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Toriola explained that telecom operators have not adjusted prices in over a decade despite significant economic pressures.
“We at MTN believe we need a tariff adjustment of about 100%. The industry is aligned because we all face the same headwinds,” Toriola said.
He noted that sectors such as aviation and power have already adjusted their prices, leaving telecommunications behind.
Toriola emphasized that the proposed hike would help ensure the sustainability of the telecoms industry and allow operators to maintain and improve service quality. He also highlighted Nigeria’s low data and voice tariffs, which he said are among the cheapest globally.
The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) warned on December 30, 2024, that operators might be forced to reduce services if tariffs are not reviewed urgently.
Subscribers Reject Proposed Tariff Increase
However, the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) has strongly opposed the proposed hike, calling it “insensitive” and a burden on consumers already grappling with rising living costs.
Sources indicate that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) may have approved a 40% tariff increase starting January 2025, although the commission has yet to confirm this. Under the proposed adjustments:
• Voice calls would rise from ₦11.00 to ₦15.40 per minute.
• SMS charges would increase from ₦4.00 to ₦5.60.
• A 1GB data bundle would jump from ₦1,000 to ₦1,400.
NATCOMS, in a communique signed by its President Deolu Ogunbanjo and National Secretary Bayo Omotubora, described the proposed hike as exploitative. They argued that telecom services, already burdened by multiple taxes and levies, should not become inaccessible to ordinary Nigerians.
Balancing Industry Sustainability and Consumer Burden
Toriola acknowledged the government’s concern over adding pressure to consumers but suggested a phased approach to tariff adjustments. “I’m optimistic they will grant something substantial and progressively over the year,” he said, emphasizing the need for sustainable operations to avoid potential service disruptions.
Meanwhile, NATCOMS called on the NCC to reverse the approval, urging telecom operators to explore alternative revenue streams rather than burdening consumers.
As the debate continues, the sector faces a critical test of balancing operational viability with affordability for millions of Nigerians dependent on telecom services.
An accidental discharge by a policeman in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital, has killed a nursing mother, Ifeoluwa Adekolu, resulting in the arrest and detention of the officer.
Information gathered revealed that the incident happened at Oke-Ila Police Station.
An eyewitness, said the woman was standing across the road opposite the police station when an officer, who had come to the station from another division, fired his gun to rejoice the news of promotion of one of his colleagues but a stray bullet hit her.
The woman was rushed to a hospital where she was confirmed dead.
The state Commissioner of Police, who was recently prompted to an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Adewale Adeniran, confirmed the incident, adding that the officer involved had been disarmed and detained by the command.
AIG Adeniran said the officer would face interrogations in line with the Nigeria Police Act.
A Chief Magistrate Court in Iyaganku, Ibadan, has ordered the remand of three key figures in connection with last week’s tragic stampede at Bashorun Islamic High School.
The individuals include Mr. Abdullahi Fasasi, the school’s principal; Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, the proprietor of Agidigbo FM; and Naomi Silekunola, the estranged wife of Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ile Ife.
Presided over by Chief Magistrate Olabisi Ogunkanmi, the court’s ruling came on Tuesday, following their arraignment by the Oyo State Police Command.
The proceedings took place under heightened security, with a crowd of family members and interested parties gathered outside the courthouse.
The defendants face four-count charges related to the incident, as outlined by the police prosecutor, who cited a violation of Section 324 of the Criminal Code, Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.
After hearing the charges, Chief Magistrate Ogunkanmi ordered that the trio be held at Agodi Correctional Centre while awaiting further guidance from the state prosecutor.
As Christmas 2024 approaches, an unprecedented wave of economic hardship is forcing Nigerian families to make difficult choices between tradition and survival. With food inflation soaring above 40 percent in Abuja alone, many households are going to bed hungry, while others struggle to maintain even a shadow of their usual holiday celebrations.
The harsh reality is evident in markets across the nation's major cities. At Mile 12 International Market in Lagos, trucks laden with tomatoes, peppers, and vegetables create an illusion of abundance. But behind this facade, a complex web of challenges drives prices ever higher.
Truck owner Shehu explains the brutal mathematics of food distribution: "We spend between N500,000 and N800,000 per truck on diesel, farm security, and checkpoint fees before reaching Lagos. It's suffocating us, but we have no choice."
The impact on everyday items is staggering. A chicken that cost N15,000 last year now sells for N35,000, with only older layers available at the previous year's price. "What will that do for my family?" asks Mummy Somto at Agric Market in Ikorodu, her voice heavy with frustration. "We have never seen it like this in Nigeria. I hope this hope is the hope."
The ripple effects touch every aspect of daily life. At Daleko Market, the prices tell their own story: a 25-liter container of vegetable oil sells for up to N95,000, while garri reaches N56,000. Even basic ingredients like curry and thyme now cost N550 per roll, and a single small onion bulb commands an astronomical N200. Mrs. Bukky Osagie, a rice vendor at Mile 12, watches as customers increasingly opt for half bags instead of full ones. "Last December, a bag of rice was between N65,000 and N70,000. Today, it starts from N95,000. How do people survive this trend?"
The traditional journey home for Christmas, a cornerstone of Nigerian cultural life, has become an impossible luxury for many. In Kaduna, Nonye Juliet calculates the painful math of her journey to Owerri: last year's round trip of N100,000 has risen even higher. The situation is even more dire for air travelers, with fares seeing a staggering 218 percent increase since June. A one-way ticket from Abuja to Lagos now costs between N220,000 and N285,000, forcing many to abandon air travel entirely.
Those who must travel by road face their own challenges. A journey from Abuja to Lagos that previously cost N28,000 now demands up to N60,000. At Jabi Motor Park, trader Emeka Uzo observes the impact: "People are no longer travelling as much. Even buses are going half-empty because of the cost of tickets."
Families are adapting in various ways. In Benin City, Mr. Uche Isaac, a commercial driver, breaks with tradition: "I have never spent Christmas outside my village, but this time, I will celebrate it in Benin City." With transportation costs of over N200,000 for his family of seven, he's chosen to use the money for rice and meat instead. Victor Okechukwu from Imo State plans to travel alone, breaking his journey through Onitsha to save costs. "Life will continue after the yuletide celebration," he reasons.
The Federal Government has attempted to ease the burden with initiatives including 50 percent rebates on transport fares, free Compressed Natural Gas bus services, and free train transportation in Abuja. However, these measures provide little comfort to families like Miriam Jagaba's. Shopping at Utako Market with her four children, she laments, "Last year, I bought a bag of rice for N75,000, but now it's almost double. It's heartbreaking."
Yet, amidst the hardship, the spirit of celebration persists. At Daleko Market, Mrs. Hannah captures this resilience: "Whether the devil likes it or not, we will celebrate with our families and share love during this season. We will just have to adjust our spending according to our means." In Ilorin, Mazi Joseph, a shoemaker, maintains that some community events cannot be missed, regardless of cost. "This is not new," he reflects.
"Things have always been expensive, even though this year is different in dimension and progression."
As Christmas 2024 approaches, this season of joy has become a testament to Nigerian resilience, with families finding ways to preserve the spirit of celebration even as they adapt to unprecedented economic challenges. While traditional homecomings may be muted and feasts scaled back, the determination to maintain family bonds and cultural traditions remains unshaken, even if through more modest means or remote connections.
At least 12 people were confirmed dead on Saturday morning in Okija town, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state, while scrambling for Christmas rice, a Business Day report has confirmed.
It is also estimated that over 32 people sustained various degrees of injury in the stampede caused by the distribution of rice organised by a son of the town and philanthropist, Chief Earnest Obiejesi, also known as Obi Jackson.
It was gathered that the distribution of food items has always been an annual tradition for philanthropist Obiejesi during most festive seasons, and is part of his foundation’s effort to assist his kinsmen, often culminating in a large carnival.
However, this year’s distribution was marred by deaths and injuries as the surging crowd became uncontrollable, leading to a stampede that has so far claimed twelve lives.
A son of the town, who identified himself as Uchenna, said: “It is not our brother Obi Jackson who caused their deaths, but the crowd that refused to comport themselves.
The bags of rice I saw could take care of everyone and even more people, but due to the hunger in the land, most people feared that the rice might not reach them. This led to the tragic incident, and it is very unfortunate,”.
Narrating the incident further, Mrs Maria Okonkwo, who was heading to the venue, described the scene: “The number of people was overwhelming, and more people were still arriving to take part in the rice distribution when people started shouting.
The organizers were busy trying to control the crowd, but there was little they could do as the crowd had overpowered them. Some people chose to carry as many bags as possible, and when others fell, they were trampled by the surging crowd, leading to the deaths of several individuals.”
“I cannot say exactly how many people died, but it could be around ten or thirteen. However, those who were injured are more than thirty, and about six people fainted,”
Efforts to contact the event organizers were unsuccessful, as none of them answered their calls, possibly due to shock over the incident.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Anambra Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochikwu Ikenga in a statement issued on Saturday said Anambra State Police Operatives have taken over the scene in Okija, where an alleged stampede occurred in the early hours of today, 21/12/2024, leading to some fatalities.”
He said that the preliminary information reveals that a known philanthropist from the Okija community, as part of his yearly tradition, distributes palliatives to the less privileged in the community.
According to him, unfortunately, before the event could start, a large, uncontrolled crowd took over the event area, resulting in the stampede.
Ikenga also said that although the details of the affected persons are still sketchy, but police operatives have taken control of the scene for a proper investigation.
He added that further details would be communicated.
Federal Capital Territory Police Command has confirmed that 10 people, including four children, lost their lives in a stampede during a food distribution event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday.
Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer, SP , stated that the incident occurred around 6:30 am when a crowd of over 1,000 people gathered to collect food items intended for the vulnerable and elderly.
Adeh stated that the police had effectively cleared the scene and restored order.
Part of the statement reads: “This tragic incident, which occurred around 6:30 am, led to a stampede that claimed the lives of 10 people, including four children, and left eight others injured.
Four of the injured have been treated and discharged, while the remaining victims are still receiving medical care.”
According to her, “The FCT Police Rapid Response Squad and the FCT Joint Task Force have successfully evacuated the remaining crowd, which numbered over a thousand.”
She said the Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, has visited the injured at the hospital to offer support and ensure proper care.
Adeh said, “The FCT Police Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to the injured. In a show of compassion and support, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu has visited the victims in the hospital to offer assistance and reassurance during this difficult time.
She emphasized that to prevent similar tragedies, the command must be notified in advance of any such events.
Adeh cautioned that failure to comply would result in event organizers being held accountable.
“All organisations, religious bodies, groups, or individuals planning public events, charitable activities, or large gatherings in the FCT must notify the Police Command in advance. This notification is crucial for the deployment of adequate security measures to ensure public safety and prevent avoidable tragedies.
Failure to comply with this directive will result in the organizers being held liable for any incidents or loss of life resulting from negligence,” she said.
Reports have it that at least 10 people have reportedly died, with many more injured in a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, on Saturday morning.
It would be recalled that a similar tragedy occurred in Ibadan, Oyo State, where a stampede at a children’s funfair claimed the lives of at least 35 children and left six others critically injured.
Saturday’s incident happened as residents rushed to collect palliatives being distributed by the church.
The event, aimed at providing relief to struggling residents, reportedly attracted people mostly from Mpape, Gishiri Village, and other nearby communities
Nigerians in a Vanguard report have passed a vote of no confidence on INEC to emulate Ghana’s transparency. They believed that INEC as it is today is incapable of conducting a seamless and credible election in Nigeria in 2027.
They said that the electoral umpire has failed to improve on its performance in off-cycle elections that took place in Edo and Ondo and can therefore not be trusted to conduct a free and fair poll. They called for urgent critical reforms that must be put in place before 2027 and suggested how to make INEC free from the control and influence of politicians.
INEC needs true independence to shield it from manipulations —Prof Okaba
President of Ijaw National Congress, INC, Prof Benjamin Okaba said: “Judging by their recent performance, the Ghanaian Electoral Commission offers a near perfect example and model of a truly dependable, independent and efficient electoral body that Nigeria must emulate, if this nation sincerely desires to take the issues of good governance and development seriously.
For the INEC to conduct a credible and seamless election in 2027, Nigeria must undertake some urgent and critical reforms that would significantly enhance the credibility, fairness, integrity and general acceptability of its electoral system.
These include: Securing INEC’s true independence to shield it from undue political manipulation; Overhauling electoral laws to plug loopholes and ensure transparency; Ensure enforceability of these laws especially as they relate to the mandatory use of BVAS; Immediate transmission of results to the INEC portal after any vote is cast; Fostering internal democracy within political parties to prevent the imposition of candidates; Intensifying voter education and awareness initiatives and Harnessing technology to modernize voter registration, accreditation, and result transmission. We should be working towards total electronic voting and drastic reduction of the number of political parties to a manageable size to reduce operational cost and ensure greater effectiveness.
We need to redefine the role of security agencies during our elections in a manner that they should not be a deciding factor in any election. A special Election Offences Tribunal should be set up to promptly deal with the culprits. However, we must note that the problem of Nigeria is not the lack of laws but purely the lack of the political will and ethical determination to enforce our laws”.
There must be consequence against electoral offenders — Gbemre
Zik Gbemre, Coordinator, Niger Delta Peace Coalition posited: “The results from recent off season governorship elections in Edo and Ondo tell you we are not ready yet and we still have a long walk to credible elections.
The feedback from both exercises in which the nation mobilised the entire machinery of INEC and massive security deployment for the elections further affirmed that the problem with our election is not for lack of reforms or adequate laws.
The real challenge is the impunity to compromise the process and rules because the system shies away from enforcing consequence action against election offenders. INEC tried to live up to its commitment to start transmitting results from the field through its Results Viewing Portal, ‘IREV’ during the Edo and Ondo guber polls.
But the results it fed into the IREV, how credible were they? Many people as well as election observer groups affirmed that vote buying was rampant and even alleged that INEC officials in some instances manipulated the results before uploading into IREV. And all the compromises, stealing of materials, violence during campaigns or voting day, falsifying results, security aiding and abetting, all attract punishment, but how many people were punished to deter others from undermining the rule of law.
Stakeholders should respect the laws we have in the electoral process and offenders should be prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
Having a credible election in 2027 is a mirage — Kuejubola
A public commentator, Mr. Emmanuel Kuejubola said: “INEC does not have the will power and capacity to conduct free and credible elections because there is always this interference from the powers that be who believe that it is the destiny of some persons to determine the fate of others across the country and there is too much interference from the executive. All the electoral guidelines and the law guiding the conduct of the election are all good but the problem is the implementation. At the moment, it is near impossible for the executive not to interfere with the process. It is not just INEC, the security apparatus of the country is always tilted towards pleasing those who determine the fate of this country.
However, if Nigerians are determined to have free and credible elections, Nigerians must speak with one voice irrespective of who is contesting, his tribe or religion. It must be a national orientation that it is our desire to have credible elections”
Political elite denied the electoral umpire autonomy since 1999 —Adewale
A public analyst and former Ondo state SDP chairman – Hon Stephen Adewale said, “INEC’s ability to conduct a seamless and credible election in 2027 is uncertain, given its challenges in the 2023 general elections. Despite efforts to review the Electoral Act, malpractices and electoral disputes marred the process. INEC has also failed to improve its performance in the series of off-cycle elections that have since taken place in Bayelsa, Kogi, Edo, and Ondo.
However, there is still time for INEC to take the proper steps to ensure that it conducts a credible election in 2027, but achieving a credible election is not the sole responsibility of INEC. All hands must be on deck to ensure that INEC organises an election that Nigerians will be proud of. First, the presidency has to ensure that INEC enjoys autonomy and independence, which the political elite has denied the electoral umpire since 1999. This administrative independence will help reduce political interference. In a country where vote-buying has become the order of the day, the security operatives who are notorious for tacitly or openly supporting the ruling party must desist if we want to conduct elections that would not be marred by vote-buying.
“Security at polling units during voting and counting must be enhanced to prevent electoral malpractices. Also, internal democracy must be entrenched in the various political parties and to ensure political parties conduct free and fair primaries to avoid disputes and litigation. The Electoral Act should also be amended to provide clear procedures for party primaries, voter registration, and election dispute resolution which will go a long way in ensuring we have credible elections in Nigeria.
“Lastly, leveraging technology to enhance voter registration, accreditation, and result transmission is imperative if INEC wants to conduct free, fair, and credible elections in 2027.
Nigeria must learn from Ghana —Adekunle Ayoola, Nigeria Diaspora Europe
“As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, the question of whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) can conduct a seamless and credible election looms large. Recent elections in Ghana have set a benchmark for electoral integrity in the region, raising expectations for Nigeria’s electoral body.
However, the challenges faced by INEC, including political influence and operational inefficiencies, necessitate a critical examination of its current state and the reforms required to enhance its credibility. INEC has made strides in improving the electoral process in Nigeria, particularly with the introduction of technology in voter registration and results transmission.
However, lingering issues such as allegations of bias, lack of transparency, and susceptibility to political pressure continue to undermine public confidence in the commission. The question remains: can INEC, in its present form, replicate the success of Ghana’s electoral system in 2027? Ghana’s recent election has been lauded for its transparency and fairness, largely attributed to the independence of its electoral commission.
INEC must take cues from Ghana’s approach, which includes a well-defined legal framework, robust stakeholder engagement, and a commitment to impartiality. These elements have fostered trust among the electorate and political parties alike, resulting in peaceful transitions of power. To ensure that INEC conducts credible elections in 2027, several reforms are essential: INEC must be insulated from political interference.
This can be achieved by establishing a clear, transparent process for appointing commissioners that involve civil society and stakeholders, thereby reducing the influence of political parties; Implementing measures such as open data initiatives, where election-related information is made publicly accessible, can help build trust. Regular audits of the electoral process and results can further enhance transparency; Investing in the training and development of INEC staff is crucial.
This includes not only technical training on electoral processes but also education on ethical standards and the importance of impartiality; INEC should actively involve civil society organizations in the electoral process. Their participation can provide oversight and ensure that the commission remains accountable to the public; Continued investment in technology for voter registration, results transmission, and monitoring can help minimize human error and increase efficiency.
A robust electronic voting system, similar to Ghana’s, could also enhance the credibility of the electoral process; Educating the electorate about their rights and the electoral process can empower citizens to demand accountability from INEC and political parties. By learning from the successes of Ghana and implementing necessary reforms, Nigeria can pave the way for a more transparent and trustworthy electoral process.
The journey towards electoral integrity requires collective effort from all stakeholders, including the government, political parties, civil society, and the electorate. Only through these concerted efforts can Nigeria hope to achieve a seamless and credible election.
INEC can’t guarantee free, fair, seamless poll —— Comrade Ashaye Wasiu, United Action for Democracy (UAD), Ogun State
“The Independent National Electoral Commissions (INEC), can never guarantee a free, fair and seamless election as it is presently constituted, except the appointments and selection processes of the INEC Chairman, and the RECs are made open and competitive. Selection processes must be handled by professional and credible organizations devoid of political parties and government influence. Funding of INEC must come directly from the federation accounts while the commission must present an annual budget at a roundtable discussion before approval. Government must also collaborate with CSOs, NGOs, pro-democracy activists, media, and other stakeholders on genuine mobilizations for electoral processes, public awareness campaigns on education of the masses of their rights and demand for accountability from INEC and the political parties.
INEC can conduct credible polls but… Akene
For the chairman of Centre for Environmental Preservation & Development, CEPAD, Surv Furoebi Akene, he said: “It is not that INEC can not conduct free, fair and credible elections, but the leadership of the institution, the politicians, the judiciary and the security agencies are the major problems. Financial power is now the determinant factor which is used to compromise the electoral umpire, the judiciary and the security. Remember, officials purportedly take oath of allegiance to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria but in the actual sense, the oath of allegiance is to the President, or anybody with strong financial strength.”
INEC should be determined to give Nigerians credible elections —Tejiri
On his part, Charles Tejiri, an activist, said it may be relatively difficult to have a credible election in Nigeria due to ethnic, religious and several other factors but that Nigerians should continue to demand it. Although I don’t see how there can be a credible election in the country but we should still keep hope alive with suggestions.
The INEC boss should be determined to give Nigerians credible elections in the first instance. But when an INEC boss comes in with the mindset that he or she is out to appease politicians we can never get a positive result. The same should go for those serving as Resident Electoral Commissioners. The entire system is rotten with corruption everywhere, so I don’t see how there can be credible elections from the electoral body. But we will continue to demand it. The literacy level is another problem militating against credible elections. Most of the voters are not enlightened enough to know the weight and power of their votes, so they allow ethnic and religious sentiments to guide voting patterns.”
Nigeria can have more credible election than Ghana — Akpan
Saviour Akpan, Executive Director, COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peace Building Nigeria, asserted that: “INEC can conduct a more credible election in Nigeria than what was obtained recently in Ghana if Nigerian citizens want that to happen. Credibility is a product of responsible and patriotic citizenship. If we will take our suffering seriously and live by the rules and speak truth to power no matter who is involved, I believe we can do better and even become the best.
The needed reforms in Nigeria today must start from attitudinal changes. We must be conscious of our responsibilities and be committed to the ideals of participatory democracy which is respect for the rule of law and fundamental freedom.”
Mr Lanre Ogunsuyi, former Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Ekiti state
“INEC’s ability to conduct a seamless and credible election in 2027 is uncertain, given its current structure and challenges. While INEC has made efforts to improve the electoral process, it still faces significant obstacles, including political interference and inadequate funding to be free from the control and influence of politicians. Several reforms are necessary, INEC should be granted financial autonomy to reduce its dependence on the executive arm of government. This would enable the commission to make independent decisions without any fear.
The appointment process for INEC commissioners should be made more independent and transparent to reduce political interference. The Electoral Act should be strengthened to provide clearer guidelines and penalties for electoral offenders .
“INEC should continue to improve its voter registration process and election technology to reduce the risk of electoral manipulation, They should copy from Ghana such an inclusive drive by adopting voting by proxy for the sick, the diaspora voting, People living with disabilities, PLWD, and possibly early voting. These reforms would help to strengthen INEC’s independence and credibility, enabling it to conduct more seamless and credible elections in the future elections”.
A vehicle conveying some students of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, Ago – Iwoye, Ogun State has flipped into the bush along the newly dualised Ago – Iwoye – Ilisan road, leading to the death of three students.
While one of the students died at the scene of the accident, the two others drew their last breaths at a private hospital in Ago – Iwoye while receiving medical attention.
The fatal accident which occurred at about 3.30pm on Friday following what was attributed to “high speed,” also resulted in injuries to two other students of the state- owned varsity.
The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ogun State Police Command, who disclosed this on Saturday, December 21, in a release to newsmen, identified the vehicle and driver involved as Opel Safira with a license plate Lagos AAA-126HE and driven by Adekunle Adebiyi, a resident of Sunmibare Street, Awa Ijebu.
SP Odutola in the statement said, “A fatal motor accident occurred on December 20, 2024, at about 3:30 PM along the Ilisan/Ago Iwoye road. The incident involved a commercial Opel Safira with the license plate Lagos AAA-126HE, which was driven by one Adekunle Adebiyi, residing at 5 Sunmibare Street, Awa Ijebu.
“The Opel was travelling at high speed towards Ilisan from the Ago Iwoye direction when the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to flip into the bush. A male passenger whose identity has not yet been confirmed but is believed to be a student from OOU died at the scene. His body has been taken to the General Hospital Ijebu Ode mortuary.
“Additionally, two female students from Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) Dada Oluwanifesimi, 18, a sophomore in Mass Communication, and Miracle Ogo Oluwa Daniel, 19, a junior—were rushed to Love and Care Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment. Two other OOU students are currently receiving medical care at the OOU Medical Centre on the Mini Campus. The vehicle has been recovered and is being stored safely at the station. This information is provided for your awareness, and further updates will be communicated as they become available.”
Less than one month after the Port Harcourt Refining Company appeared to have resumed production, the facility has stopped working, the Punch Newspaper has reported.
Correspondent, who visited the refinery on Thursday, December 19, 2024, observed that the lifting of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) had stopped.
It was gathered that lifting of petrol actually stopped since December 13, as the 18-arm loading bay of the new Port Harcourt refinery was empty.
While about 18 trucks littered the stretch of the busy road leading to the refinery itself, nine trucks were spotted inside the parking yard, while the loading bay was empty.
The depot, which is usually a beehive of activities where tankers scramble for space at the parking yard, was a shadow of itself with literally no vehicular or human activity relating to operations.
$1.5bn celebration
Recall that the inauguration of the 60,000 barrel per day production capacity plant by the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, was met with celebration and fanfare. This was after $1.5bn was approved in March 2021 and spent on the rehabilitation of the facility.
During the re-opening of the facility, there was lifting of petrol to the excitement of the cheering crowd.
However, less than 10 trucks of petrol were lifted that day as against widespread claims that about 200 trucks carried petrol out of the bay.
Correspondent also reported that no sooner had Kyari returned to Abuja than things returned to the old way, amidst allegations by stakeholders that the petrol lifted during the inauguration was old stock from the storage tank.
When correspondent first visited the refinery three weeks ago, it was discovered that the loading bay was deserted without the lifting of products.
In response to the discovery, the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria said operations were scaled down due to the calibration of meters at the loading bay and de-watering of the old stock, which had to be emptied to pave the way to receiving newly refined products.
A fortnight ago, tanker drivers drove in and started loading once again.
Journalists were also taken on a guided tour of the refinery, led by its Managing Director, Ibrahim Onoja.
Onoja stated, “The plant is running and we are trucking out our products. We have carried out an extensive revamp of this plant and changed most of the equipment.
“The pump and instrumentation, the cables are all brand new. So what we have done here is massive change and upgrade of the plant.”
Afterward, there was marked improvement as about 11 trucks lifted products, even as it was better the next day.
Back to default
However, when Saturday PUNCH visited on Thursday, it was learnt that production activities stopped one week ago.
A handful of drivers were seen sleeping in their trucks while doing nothing.
One of them, who spoke Hausa, said he learned the lifting of PMS would resume next Monday.
He, however, expressed doubt about the information as he counted the number of days with his fingers and muttered, “Three days; they said they would load on Monday.”
The number of workers and visitors could easily be counted as there were more security men clad in black trousers and blue shirts.
The guards were stationed at the entrance of the depot and the loading bay, and inside the loading bay itself. They kept themselves busy as they chatted away.
Another truck driver said, “It was Friday last week they loaded last. About 15 trucks or so loaded that day. Since then, not even a single truck has been loaded till now.”
Asked if any explanation was given, he replied, “I don’t know. Nobody is giving us any information or telling us anything. Some trucks that were here have left. I’m just here because my director said I should wait a bit.”
Meanwhile, a petroleum product marketer, Dappa Jubobaraye, has decried the state of refineries in the country.
Jubobaraye alleged that since Kyari inaugurated the plant, no production had taken place, pointing out that everything was just a show.
He stated, “It was intended to deceive Nigerians that the refinery is working and that is why they came up with that show. That day, only about four or five trucks loaded products.
“The loading meter was not calibrated before they started operation. Of the 18 loading arms at the bay only three are working and they have leakages. So, they have been trying to load three, four, five trucks, sometimes 10 just to show that they are working while they are not working.
“Since Mele Kyari came and left, the independent marketers have yet to load products from this depot because the NNPC is yet to fix prices for them to buy tickets and start loading products. They are only loading them to their own mega stations.
“The situation right now is that loading of PMS is not taking place because they don’t have the intention to make this place work. It is just to deceive the people.
“If you come into this place (depot), you will see trucks packed and think that loading is on; but the truth is that they are not working. Some tanker drivers have gone because they can’t come and waste time here.”
He continued, “How can you come here with the hope of loading and you stay here with your truck for two weeks, for what? Before the work stopped last week, they were loading up to 10, 15 but below 20.
“Ordinary one of the arms in the loading bay can load up to 20 to 30 trucks in a day. But for now, they are using only three arms out of the 18 loading arms inside the bay and the three are just for PMS alone. They have not started loading DPK (kerosene) and AGO (diesel). And kerosene is what concerns the ordinary more.”
Efforts to reach the spokesperson for the NNPC, Femi Soneye, were abortive as he did not take his calls or respond to a text message sent to him as of the time of filing this report.
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The Kaduna Court of Appeal has ruled that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) cannot seize foreign rice from markets or highways, limiting their enforcement authority to land borders only.
The December 6 judgment, delivered by a three-member panel led by Justice Ntong Ntong, upheld a lower court's decision that acquitted businessman Suleiman Mohammed of illegal rice importation charges.
The case stemmed from a 2019 incident where customs officials seized Mohammed's truck containing 613 bags of foreign rice and 80 bags of millet on the Kaduna-Zaria expressway. The federal high court initially acquitted Mohammed in 2021, ruling that customs failed to prove illegal importation and noting that foreign rice imports are only banned through land borders, not seaports.
In dismissing the NCS appeal, Justice Ntong criticized customs for targeting traders instead of actual importers, stating "How can a fowl leave to attack who killed it to pursue who is de-feathering it?" The justice emphasized that the Kaduna-Zaria expressway is not a land border and that Mohammed was merely a purchaser, not an importer.
The court ordered customs to either return the seized goods to Mohammed or pay him their current market value. This ruling effectively restricts the NCS's authority to confiscate foreign rice to land border areas only, not within domestic markets or highways.
The judgment clarifies that while importing foreign rice through land borders remains prohibited, importation through seaports is legal, and customs cannot seize such products once they are being traded in local markets.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has cracked down on counterfeit rice operations, shutting down eight illegal rice shops and a warehouse in Nasarawa state's Karu Local Government Area.
The agency also seized over 1,600 bags of allegedly counterfeit rice, valued at N5 billion, from markets in Abuja's Wuse and Garki districts.
Kenneth Azikiwe, NAFDAC's FCT directorate head, revealed that the operation uncovered facilities where counterfeiters were repackaging rice in branded bags at night.
The illegal operation, run by a woman from a warehouse behind her residence, would move the repackaged products to a separate warehouse during daylight hours for sale to unsuspecting consumers.
The crackdown came following direct orders from NAFDAC Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye, who mandated action to ensure only safe, quality food products would be available to Nigerians during the holiday season and beyond.
Azikiwe emphasized that such counterfeiting practices are illegal and mislead consumers who believe they are purchasing quality products.
A Lagos woman, Olamide Thomas, who allegedly rained curses on Seyi, the son of President Bola Tinubu, the Tinubu family as well as the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun on her social media handle will spend Christmas at Suleja prison.
This was after Justice Nwite of Federal High Court ordered her remand in prison till 30th December after she pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge filed against her by the office of the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun.
Olamide was arrested on allegations bordering on harassing and threatening Seyi Tinubu, Egbetokun and the Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a viral social media post.
In the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/636/2024 dated and filed on Dec 18 by the police team of lawyers led by A.A. Egwu, Olamide was sued as sole defendant.
Upon resumed hearing, Victor Okoye, who appeared for the police, informed the court that the matter was slated for arraignment and that he was ready to proceed.
After the counts were read to the defendant, she pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The defence lawyer, T J. Aondo, SAN, sought to move an oral application on his client’s behalf but the request was turned down.
Justice Nwite directed Aondo to file a formal bail application and adjourned the matter until Dec 30 for commencement of trial.
The judge, however, assured the defence counsel that as soon as a bail application is filed in form of a motion on notice, the court would not hesitate to hear it.
He consequently ordered her to be remanded in Suleja Correctional Centre pending the hearing of her bail application.
In count one, Olamide was alleged to have, sometime in 2024, knowingly and intentionally transmitted communication in the form of video recording through computer system or network on her social media platforms wherein she made remarks in Yoruba Language.
In the video, she was alleged to have stated “that Mr Seyi Tinubu would die this year, and misfortune and calamity had befallen the Tinubu family, with intent to bully, threaten, harass the person of Mr Seyi Tinubu.”
The communication was said to have placed Seyi in fear of death, violence or bodily harm.
The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
In count two, the defendant was alleged to have intentionally transmitted communication in the form of video recording wherein she made remarks in Yoruba Language to bully, threaten, harass the person of Mr Egbetokun.
The communication was said to have placed Egbetokun in fear of death, violence or bodily harm.
The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
In count three, Olamide was accused of intentionally transmitting or causing the transmission of communication in the form of video recording wherein she made remarks in Yoruba Language, stating that the children of Adejobi would all die before his eyes.
She was quoted to have also said that “he (Adejobi) will bury all his children in a single day, with Intent to bully, threaten, harass the person of Mr. Muyiwa Adejobi.”
The communication was said to have placed Adejobi in fear of death of his loved ones.
The offence is said to be contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.
(NAN)
Nigerian businesses anticipate further depreciation of the naira through early 2025, despite maintaining overall optimism about the macroeconomic environment, according to the Central Bank of Nigeria's November 2024 Business Expectation Survey.
While businesses expect the naira to weaken over the next three months, they project a potential recovery in the six-month outlook. This sentiment spans across all business sectors, with the construction sector showing particular optimism about its operations.
However, the survey revealed mixed economic indicators. Businesses expressed pessimism regarding several key metrics, including business activity volume, financial conditions, credit accessibility, and order volumes. Despite these concerns, companies, particularly in the agriculture sector, plan to increase hiring in December 2024.
In a separate Consumer Expectation Survey, the CBN reported that households remain pessimistic about the broader economy. Consumers anticipate rising costs in transportation, rent, vehicles, housing, and medical expenses. However, most respondents (61.1% and 57.6% respectively) believe that prices of household items, while still high, will gradually decrease over the next two months.