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Ongoing APC Crisis, Portends Great Threat on Nigeria’s Democracy, Says ActionAid

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Ongoing APC Crisis, Portends Great Threat on Nigeria’s Democracy, Says ActionAid

Ongoing APC Crisis, Portends Great Threat on Nigeria’s Democracy, Says ActionAid

By: Michael Mike

ActionAid Nigeria has said the leadership crisis rocking the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of its national convention slated for March 26, 2022, should attract the attention of all Nigerians as it portends a great threat to the democratic trajectory in Nigeria.

The non-governmental organisation, in a press release issued after it’s Board of Trustees review of the State of the Nation on Saturday, said: We have reviewed developments in government, politics, the economy, and security during the last quarter, particularly as they affect vulnerable groups: women, children, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and youths, and have decided to share our views and recommendations on the way forward.

The NGO said: “The President’s assent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill is commendable and proper implementation will further deepen Nigeria’s democratic experience. However, the leadership crisis rocking the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of its national convention slated for March 26, 2022, portends a great threat to the democratic trajectory in Nigeria.”

Other observations, the NGOs came out with include: “The rejection of the five (5) proposed Gender Bills in the 5th Constitution Alteration Bills by the two Houses of the National Assembly on 1st March 2022 threatens the achievement of adequate women representation in governance and inclusion of women in decision making in Nigeria.

“The peaceful conduct of the FCT Area Council election is commendable, though, INEC ‘s administration of the election fell short of the expected standard, especially in the light of the fact that the Commission had repeatedly assured citizens of its readiness to conduct the election. In addition, the election was not devoid of vote trading.

“Fuel scarcity persists across major cities in the country with cost of transportation and consumables increasing astronomically following the importation of adulterated fuel by some marketers. Acute shortage of aviation fuel (Jet A1) has also negatively impacted the aviation industry and the economy. It is disturbing that the NNPC and other regulators in the downstream sector continue to watch as Nigerians and businesses undergo this harrowing experience without penalizing the culprits behind the importation of the adulterated fuel.

“There seems to be a lack of seriousness in addressing the failing educational system in Nigeria. While the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, has always demanded an improvement of the conditions of service, there appears to be a deeper problem which bothers on quality and standards of teaching, infrastructure, and general governance structure of the entire educational system. 

Also Read: Nigeria-European Union Partnership project launches first…

“Nigeria is faced with an unprecedented wave of different but overlapping security crises. Insecurity in Nigeria has risen sharply over the last few years. In almost every region of the country there are three major security issues: communal clashes/civil unrest, and kidnap-for-ransom (KFR) and ritual killings.

“The Nigerian government’s evacuation of its more than 12,000 citizens studying and living in Ukraine is commendable after Russia began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. We urge the government to do more in relocating the affected students to other educational institutions in Europe.

“As countries across the globe seek creative ways to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic; African countries like Tanzania are making moves to produce local vaccines while UAE is offering free PCR testing on arrival to promote tourism, PCR test in Nigeria remains a lucrative business benefiting the rich while cost effective and sustainable strategies to tackle the pandemic is yet to be clearly articulated.

“Ritual killings are now on the rise in Nigeria. While the quest and desperation to get rich quick especially among young people has been linked to poverty and greed, some persons apprehended for ritual killings and witch doctors who perform the sacrifices have insinuated that politicians, government officials, and wealthy businessmen are their sponsors.

“The decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to cease funding commercial banks with hefty forex before the end of the year 2022, urging them to source forex to operate, further increases the disparity between the official rate in the official and parallel markets. Nigeria still being heavily import dependent and with businesses sourcing their forex from the parallel market, this is manifesting in the inflation rate and high cost of living. This is increasing the number of people living in poverty and worsening their survival status. 

It however called on the National Assembly to substantiate it’s commitment to gender equality by re-presenting and re-considering not just three but all the five proposed Gender Bills in the 5th Constitution Alteration Bills, insisting that Nigerian women deserve a constitution that guarantees: an irreducible minimum of 111 seats for women in the National Assembly; Indigeneship, citizenship, 35% in political party leadership and more appointive positions.

It stated that: “As the 2023 general elections draw nearer, INEC should take lessons from the FCT polls and re-evaluate its readiness for subsequent elections. We call on INEC to improve on logistics coordination, retrain staff on the use of the BVAS and review the accessibility of polling units with registered voters who are PWDs.”

Ongoing APC Crisis, Portends Great Threat on Nigeria’s Democracy, Says ActionAid

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Nigeria: Over 740 civilians killed in ten states between 2015 and 2025—Reports

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Nigeria: Over 740 civilians killed in ten states between 2015 and 2025—Reports

By: Our Reporter

Data obtained from daily reports indicates that over 740,000 civilians have been killed across ten Nigerian states between 2015 and 2025, according to an extensive analysis conducted by News Net Global Limited from reported cases in three national newspapers: The Daily Trust, Leadership Newspapers, and Daily Post Nigeria. 

This staggering figure underscores the severity of violence primarily driven by Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, and other armed attacks affecting states such as Borno, Benue, Taraba, Plateau, Kaduna, Niger, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Katsina in northeast, north-central, and northwest Nigeria. 

The persistence of these violent activities has not only resulted in a high death toll but also contributed to widespread displacement and socio-economic destabilization within these regions. 

Despite government efforts to curb the violence, criticism remains regarding the effectiveness of security measures implemented during this period.

The complexity of the conflict is further compounded by military actions such as airstrikes that have inadvertently caused civilian casualties, raising questions about operational accountability and humanitarian consequences.

As these challenges persist, there is a pressing need for comprehensive strategies that prioritize the protection of civilians and address the root causes of insecurity in affected regions.

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates enhanced intelligence gathering, community engagement, and collaboration with international partners to effectively dismantle the networks of armed groups and restore stability in the regions.

The involvement of local communities in peace-building initiatives has been identified as a crucial element in mitigating violence and fostering long-term stability. The integration of conflict resolution frameworks that emphasize dialogue and reconciliation is essential to bridging the gap between communities and fostering an environment conducive to sustainable peace. 

To effectively address these multifaceted issues, it is imperative for both national and international stakeholders to foster collaborative efforts that enhance security frameworks and prioritize the well-being of affected populations. 

Strengthening governance structures and promoting transparency in military operations are also vital to rebuilding trust between the government and its citizens. 

To address the widespread violence effectively, it is crucial to implement policies that not only enhance military precision and accountability but also focus on socioeconomic development initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and providing education as a means to deter youth from joining armed groups. 

Addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty and lack of education, is paramount in curbing the recruitment of youths into armed groups and fostering a more peaceful society. 

Furthermore, the integration of community-based peacebuilding initiatives and grassroots advocacy can play a pivotal role in empowering local populations to actively participate in creating solutions that address their unique security concerns. 

Also, by fostering collaboration between governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, Nigeria can develop a comprehensive strategy that not only addresses immediate security threats but also promotes long-term stability and resilience within affected communities. 

It was observed that investing in education and economic development programs can also provide alternative pathways for youth, reducing the allure of joining armed groups and contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous society. 

Dialogue between conflicting communities and strengthening local governance structures can enhance peacebuilding efforts, ensuring that the root causes of conflict are addressed effectively. 

This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms and increased accountability measures to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further loss of life. 

To effectively address these challenges, it is crucial for the Nigerian government to implement robust security reforms and enhance accountability mechanisms, ensuring that both state and non-state actors are held accountable for their actions.

 Also, bolstering the judicial system to ensure swift and fair trials for those implicated in acts of violence can deter future atrocities and reinforce public trust in the rule of law. Additionally, fostering stronger collaboration with international human rights organizations can help monitor and report on human rights abuses, ensuring that global attention remains focused on these issues and prompting necessary interventions.

Similarly, investing in community-based early warning systems can empower local populations to identify and report potential threats, facilitating timely interventions and potentially saving lives. 

Also, integrating community policing initiatives can foster trust between law enforcement and local communities, creating a more inclusive approach to security that prioritizes the protection of civilians. 

Nigeria: Over 740 civilians killed in ten states between 2015 and 2025—Reports

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FG To Invest $220m In Creating Job Opportunities For Young Nigerians

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FG To Invest $220m In Creating Job Opportunities For Young Nigerians

*We’re bridging transition gap between learning and earning for thousands of graduates, says VP Shettima

By: Our Reporter

The Nigerian government has concluded plans to invest $220 million in creating employment opportunities for young Nigerians.

The initiative is to be spearheaded in collaboration with the European Union (EU) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through the second phase of the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2.0 aimed at connecting high-potential graduates with real-world work experience, training, and mentorship.

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, who disclosed on Wednesday when he formally flagged off the NJFP at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, said the goal is “to bridge the transition gap between learning and earning for thousands of young Nigerians; graduates who have the education, but not always the opportunity.”

According to him, this will translate the nation’s demographic strength “into productive economic power, proving that when government provides structure, partnership, and purpose, young Nigerians rise to the occasion.”

The VP noted that while the NJFP is a Nigerian programme shaped by national priorities and guided by the nation’s sense of purpose, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to deepen the ownership by embedding the programme into government’s national planning and budgeting frameworks.

He stated: “This government will do its part — by ensuring that our financial commitment to the programme reflects our belief in its transformative potential. But national ownership must also mean national participation.

“As we launch NJFP 2.0 today, I call on our partners — from the private sector, the development community, and the donor ecosystem — to join us in building the NJFP Basket Fund, a sustainable financing mechanism to secure the programme’s future.

“Our immediate goal is to raise $220 million, not as charity, but as an investment in the nation’s most valuable asset: our young people.”

VP Shettima implored the EU, the UNDP and other partners to consider the flag-off of the programme as an opportunity to prove that “youth employment is not just a policy priority but a shared responsibility.”

He observed that when resources are pooled and intentions are aligned in the course of building together, a multiplier effect is created that benefits the nation’s economy.

The Vice President acknowledged the contributions of the EU and the UNDP, noting that their belief in Nigeria’s youth has demonstrated what could be achieved through collaboration.

He said it was now time for Nigeria, through its public institutions, private sector champions, and philanthropic community to lead from the front, even as he maintained that inclusivity is key to driving the process.

His words: “As we scale NJFP 2.0, inclusivity remains at the heart of our design. We recognise that our young people are not a single story. They live in different realities, across regions, genders, and social backgrounds.

“Therefore, this next phase will intentionally reach every corner of the country, aligning placements with the sectors that will define our economic future: agriculture, renewable energy, digital technology, manufacturing, and the creative industries.”

Senator Shettima expressed hope that the second phase of the NJFP would turn out to be a success story “of how Nigeria turned its demographic advantage into a generation of productive citizens — creating jobs, building enterprises, and shaping the future of our great nation.

“The task before us is both serious and inspiring. The young Nigerians we seek to serve are not asking for handouts — only for a fair system that recognises effort, rewards merit, and provides opportunity. They are ready to build if we are ready to back them,” he added.

For his part, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, described the NJFP 2.0 as a continuation of the federal government’s success in youth empowerment.

He noted that since the programme began in 2021, it has helped over 13,000 youths to gain skills, assuring that the initiative will build on its progress and achieve its long-term goal of placing 100,000 youths in jobs within five years.

In her welcome address, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, said the generous funding from the European Union and implementation support from the UNDP, over the years, are aimed at connecting potential to opportunity.

She noted that the vision behind the NJFP has come to light, resulting in over 40,000 Nigerians being placed in various economic sectors.

She stressed that millions of Nigerians need the NJFP platform to thrive in today’s economy.

Also, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gauthier Mignot, said the EU was looking forward to seeing the NJFP 2.0 programme integrated into Nigeria’s governance agenda to ensure its sustainability.

Delivering the keynote address titled “Building a National Workforce for the Future,” the CEO of Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman, emphasized that millions of Nigerians can perform the jobs currently being outsourced to foreign companies if they are given the right opportunities, such as those provided under the NJFP programme.

He urged relevant authorities and stakeholders not to ignore the millions of Nigerians who, without support, may never transition from graduates to gainful employment.

FG To Invest $220m In Creating Job Opportunities For Young Nigerians

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CAIDOV Calls on NBA to Take Action Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, Over Professional Misconduct

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CAIDOV Calls on NBA to Take Action Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, Over Professional Misconduct

By: Michael Mike

The Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) has called on the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to take immediate disciplinary action against Mr. Aloy Ejimakor, counsel to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, for alleged professional misconduct relating to his participation in the recent “Free Nnamdi Kanu” protest in Abuja.

In a statement signed by the group’s Executive Director, Comrade Gbenga Soloki, CAIDOV condemned the lawyer’s appearance and participation at the protest ground, describing it as a clear breach of professional ethics and a violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC) for Legal Practitioners 2023, particularly Rule 33, which deals with sub judice statements.

Soloki said, according to the rule: “A lawyer or law firm engaged in or associated with the prosecution or defence of a criminal matter, or associated with a civil action shall not, while litigation is anticipated or pending in the matter, make or participate in making any extra-judicial statement that is calculated to prejudice or interfere with, or is reasonably capable of prejudicing or interfering with, the fair trial of the matter or the judgment or sentence.”

He stated that by joining a public protest concerning a case he is directly handling, Ejimakor acted in a manner that could influence public perception and potentially compromise the impartiality of the court.

“The law expects that lawyers argue their cases in court, not on the streets, in protest grounds, or on media platforms. Mr. Ejimakor’s participation in the protest is tantamount to trying to sway public opinion and, by extension, the court’s view on a matter still under adjudication,” he said in the statement.

He further emphasised that the legal profession demands discipline, restraint, and respect for judicial processes, warning that “emotions must never override ethics.”

“This act by Mr. Ejimakor amounts to professional misconduct. The law is not emotional, and every lawyer is bound by its standards, regardless of who their client is,” he added.

CAIDOV therefore urged the law enforcement agencies to investigate the lawyer’s actions to determine if his involvement in the protest constituted a breach of national security or contempt of court.

Similarly, the group called on the Nigerian Bar Association’s Disciplinary Committee to review Ejimakor’s conduct and impose appropriate sanctions to preserve the integrity and credibility of the legal profession.

“Mr. Ejimakor made a very big mistake by publicly protesting for a client in a case he is handling. The NBA must take swift disciplinary measures to send a clear message that professional ethics cannot be compromised,” the group said.

CAIDOV Calls on NBA to Take Action Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, Over Professional Misconduct

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