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Procurement Act: We will mobilise Nigerians to protest amendments without stakeholders, citizens’ input, NEFGAD tells FG
Procurement Act: We will mobilise Nigerians to protest amendments without stakeholders, citizens’ input, NEFGAD tells FG
By: Michael Mike
Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD), a public procurement advocacy group has warned the federal government against towing the path of seeking amendments to the Public Procurement Act 2007 without stakeholders and citizens input as provided by relevant laws and due legislative process.
The group threatened to mobilize citizens and stakeholders to protest any amendment that fall short of constitutional provisions and necessary legislative guidelines.
The group issued this warning through a statement signed by its Head of Office, Mr. Omoniyi Akingunola and released to the media in Abuja on Tuesday.
The group said it received from reliable authority that “some elements within the system had perfected plans to hurriedly smuggle suffocating and self-serving provisions as amendments to the Act with timeline clandestinely allotted to the amendment processes with blatant disregard to stakeholders and citizen’s input.”
The group further stated that the interested parties already have drafted manuscripts to be handed-out to The constituted Public Procurement Act amendment committee and the National Assembly with no regard to citizens and stakeholders’ input.
The group however said it has nothing against the amendment of the Public Procurement Act which it said was long overdue, but insisted that the right and due process of amendment must be followed as stated in the Nigerian constitution. This due process, it said, includes citizens and stakeholders’ engagement and input, through a call for memoranda and public hearing.
The group said it frowned at a situation whereby for over a month, the only information in the public regarding proposed amendment to such an important law on public procurement was the inauguration of the selected amendment committee.
Akingunola said public procurement is the lifewire of government and the main channel through which governments serve the people, it constitutes over 90percent of entire government spendings, hence any legal framework around its operations must seek the input of people it intend to serve. The people must have a say in the way and manner they want to be served and catered for.
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Procurement Act: We will mobilise Nigerians to protest amendments without stakeholders, citizens’ input, NEFGAD tells FG
Easter: IPCR Calls for Peace, Unity, National Reconciliation
By: Michael Mike
The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity, and national reconciliation as Christians across the country mark Easter.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, the Director-General of the institute, Joseph Ochogwu, extended warm greetings to Christians, describing Easter as a sacred season that reflects sacrifice, redemption, and hope.
He noted that the celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ remains a defining moment in the Christian faith, symbolising victory over adversity, renewal of life, and the triumph of light over darkness.
Ochogwu urged Christians to use the period to pray for peace, tranquility, and harmony in Nigeria, especially at a time when the country is grappling with security challenges. He referenced recent incidents of violence in parts of the country, including Plateau State, Kaduna State, and Maiduguri.
The IPCR boss expressed condolences to families and communities affected by the violence, offering prayers for strength, healing, and comfort for those grieving.
He emphasised that Easter serves as a reminder of the enduring power of hope, urging Nigerians—regardless of religion, ethnicity, or background—to embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
Ochogwu also called on citizens to remain vigilant and support lawful efforts to safeguard lives and property, stressing that peacebuilding is a collective responsibility.
“As we celebrate this holy season, let us preach love, extend kindness, and demonstrate compassion in our daily interactions,” he said, adding that the spirit of Easter should inspire reconciliation and a renewed commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
The institute reaffirmed its commitment to promoting dialogue, strengthening conflict resolution mechanisms, and supporting initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable peace across Nigeria.
He gave a message of hope, praying that Easter would bring healing to the nation, comfort to the afflicted, and renewed optimism for a future defined by unity and shared progress.
Easter: IPCR Calls for Peace, Unity, National Reconciliation
Army, DSS arrest notorious cultist, gunrunner in Cross River, recover weapons
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of 13 Brigade, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), have arrested a suspected cultist and gunrunner during a raid operation in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Security sources said the operation was carried out at about 1:10 a.m. on April 3 along Effangha Spring Road in Ikom.
The sources disclosed that the suspect, who hails from Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, was apprehended during the coordinated raid.
According to the sources, troops recovered one revolver pistol, one sword, two laptops, four mobile phones, one digital camera, one wristwatch, three identity cards, and a sack of garri allegedly used to conceal the weapon.
The suspect and recovered items have since been handed over to the DSS for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Security authorities said the operation is part of ongoing efforts to curb cult-related violence and illegal arms circulation in the South-South region.
Army, DSS arrest notorious cultist, gunrunner in Cross River, recover weapons
Gunmen kill village head, wife in Adamawa, son hospitalised
By: Zagazola Makama
Unknown gunmen have killed a village head and his wife in Tunga Waja community, Lamurde Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 8:50 p.m. on April 2, when the assailants attacked the residence of the village head and opened fire on him, his wife and their son.
The sources disclosed that the village head died on the spot, while his wife and son sustained gunshot wounds and were evacuated to a medical facility in Tingno for treatment.
According to the sources, the wife later died at the hospital, while the son is currently receiving treatment.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
The incident has heightened concerns among residents, as security agencies intensify efforts to restore calm and prevent further attacks in the area.
Gunmen kill village head, wife in Adamawa, son hospitalised
Easter: IPCR Calls for Peace, Unity, National Reconciliation
Man O’ War personnel reports abduction of female colleague in Bayelsa
Army, DSS arrest notorious cultist, gunrunner in Cross River, recover weapons
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