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Atiku says Tinubu lacks a well-thought-out economic plan.

Atiku Abubakar, a former PDP presidential candidate, criticized President Bola Tinubu on Monday for his economic policies. Atiku expressed dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s chaotic “bolekaja” economic policy recommendations. According to him, Tinubu’s government is based on a “Tea-plan, which can only lead to a T-pain.” “I have taken note of the initial responses highlighting the striking disparity between President Tinubu’s faltering economic policies and the alternatives I have proposed,” Atiku stated in a statement that he personally signed. It is thrilling to see such a heated discussion on these important issues, and I genuinely hope that Nigeria and its people will gain something from this discussion in the end. Like many of my fellow Nigerians, I am convinced that the reason we are currently experiencing economic unrest is to the Tinubu administration’s fast rise to power without a clear strategy. In sharp contrast, my team made sure that our strategy was inclusive and well-thought-out by not only creating a thorough Recovery Plan but also soliciting valuable feedback from Nigerians. Isn’t it intriguing that the First Lady and the NSA appear to be leading a national prayer as the sole policy response from the so-called “tested” Tinubu administration? Only twenty-four hours after I put forth my substitute solutions! What a daring plan. According to my modest reading of the Bible, prayer is a noble course of action. Nonetheless, the sacred books also advise us to work hard and diligently. Therefore, it is uncharitable for Tinubu’s staff to assert that my recommendations are still relevant. not tested. Our current situation is explained by the unpredictable, trial-and-error character of the policies this administration has so far put into place. Remember that Nigeria skyrocketed to the top of Africa’s economies under our economic leadership from 1999 to 2003, but their administration has demoted us to a depressing fourth place. READ ALSO: Scandal Rocks Equatorial Guinea: Financial Crime Chief Allegedly Linked to Leaked Intimate Tapes In contrast to the pitiful 2.8% of the so-called “tested” Tinubu era, the average GDP rate under the Obasanjo government, which I worked in, was 6.59% and reached a pinnacle of 15% in 2002; it was 7.98% during the late Yar’Adua administration and 4.8% during Jonathan’s. The chaotic “bolekaja” economic policy recommendations are enough.

Scandal Rocks Equatorial Guinea: Financial Crime Chief Allegedly Linked to Leaked Intimate Tapes

Equatorial Guinea Rocked by Scandal: Alleged Leaks Involving Financial Crime Chief Baltasar Engonga and Prominent Figures’ Spouses Equatorial Guinea, a nation often under the international spotlight for its political dynamics and resource wealth, now finds itself embroiled in a deeply personal scandal with potentially far-reaching implications. Social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has exploded with claims that over 300 intimate videos featuring Baltasar Engonga, the country’s financial crime chief, have been leaked online. The tapes allegedly involve his brother’s wife, the wife of the head of Presidential security, and potentially other high-profile individuals. This development has fueled conversations on corruption, power, and privacy violations, both within Equatorial Guinea and internationally. The Alleged Scandal Unfolds The heart of the controversy centers on claims that the tapes depict Baltasar Engonga, a key figure in Equatorial Guinea’s financial governance, in compromising situations with various individuals. Among those allegedly involved are women with significant ties to the government, including his brother’s wife and the spouse of the head of the Presidential security team. These allegations have raised questions regarding loyalty, ethics, and misuse of power within some of Equatorial Guinea’s highest-ranking circles.Such intimate leaks are rare for political figures of this stature in Equatorial Guinea, where government affairs are generally handled with strict secrecy. The scale of the alleged recordings—over 300 tapes—suggests that these activities were neither brief nor isolated, fueling even more speculation.Public Reaction and Social Media FrenzyOn X and other platforms, users have shared varied reactions. Some have expressed outrage over the apparent breach of public trust by a key government official tasked with overseeing financial crime—a role that demands integrity and high ethical standards. Others have expressed skepticism over the authenticity of the leaks, given the difficulty in verifying the tapes’ contents and context.The situation also highlights the growing influence of social media in shaping public opinion. While government officials have not yet issued statements regarding the alleged leaks, social media platforms are already filled with debates, memes, and speculative commentary. This reflects a broader global trend where private scandals involving public officials quickly become viral, often with little time for fact-checking or official responses.Implications for Equatorial Guinea’s Government This scandal could have significant implications for Equatorial Guinea’s leadership, especially if it further erodes trust among citizens and international observers. Given Baltasar Engonga’s prominent position, allegations of ethical misconduct could weaken the public’s perception of government integrity.For a country that has often been under scrutiny for corruption and financial mismanagement, allegations against a financial crime chief are particularly sensitive. If these tapes are proven genuine, they could trigger demands for greater transparency and reform, potentially impacting how Equatorial Guinea is viewed by international bodies and investors.Privacy Concerns and Ethical ImplicationsIn addition to the scandal’s political ramifications, this situation raises complex issues around privacy and ethical boundaries in the digital age. Leaks of such a personal nature bring to light questions of how private lives intersect with public roles and how breaches of privacy can serve as political weapons. While public figures must often navigate higher standards of accountability, some argue that even they deserve a degree of personal privacy.The leaking of intimate videos, regardless of their contents, sets a troubling precedent. If such tapes are genuinely in circulation, their release may reflect a targeted effort to discredit a public figure, possibly for political gain. It also underscores the need for cybersecurity measures that protect individuals from having their private lives broadcast online without consent.International Reactions and Media CoverageInternational media have taken a cautious approach to the story, given the lack of verifiable evidence and the sensitive nature of the claims. However, some human rights groups and watchdogs have expressed concern over the potential abuse of power that such a scandal could suggest. If true, these revelations could reflect broader issues in Equatorial Guinea’s governance structure, possibly reinforcing perceptions of power imbalances and lack of accountability.At the same time, the story could draw attention from international bodies and foreign governments monitoring Equatorial Guinea’s political environment. These developments may result in renewed scrutiny of Equatorial Guinea’s adherence to anti-corruption protocols and governance standards, especially if they involve public resources or abuse of office.Conclusion: A Nation at a CrossroadsThis alleged scandal places Equatorial Guinea’s leadership at a challenging juncture, where the private actions of a prominent official could influence public trust and international perception. Whether or not these claims are substantiated, the incident underscores the growing impact of social media on governance and the vulnerability of public figures to private leaks. As this story continues to unfold, the Equatoguinean government will likely be under pressure to address these allegations and potentially take actions that restore trust among its citizens and global partners. The situation serves as a reminder that in today’s digital landscape, the private lives of public figures are more susceptible to exposure than ever before, and the consequences can be both personal and political.- –The information is based on reports circulating online and has yet to be confirmed by official sources. Please be guide.

Dangote Refinery discloses the price of fuel per liter and targets IPMAN and PETROAN.

According to information released by Dangote Refinery, the price of its fuel is N960 per liter for ships and N990 per liter for trucks. The declaration comes after the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) asserted that they could import petroleum at lower prices than Dangote. The marketers said in a previous interview that they were purchasing fuel from overseas at a lower cost and urged Dangote Refinery to work with stakeholders. The refinery countered that the only products that could be purchased at a cheaper cost than its own were inferior ones. Dangote Refinery said in a statement released Sunday evening by Anthony Chiejina, the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, that it lowered its prices for selling onto ships while adhering to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) pricing benchmark. According to the text, “Both organizations assert that they are able to import PMS at a lower cost than what the Dangote Refinery is selling.” We compare our prices to those of other countries, and we think our rates are reasonable when compared to import costs. “Anyone who says they can get PMS for less than what we are selling is bringing in inferior goods and working with foreign dealers to bring in subpar goods without thinking about the health of Nigerians or the durability of their cars. Regulator NMDPRA regrettably lacks even laboratory facilities, which can be used to identify inferior goods that are brought into the nation. By offering PMS to domestic marketers at N971 per litre for sale into ships and N990 for sale into trucks, NNPC set the standard after deregulation. Our pricing was established by this, and we have since lowered it to N960 per litre for sale to ships and N990 per litre for sale to trucks. “We started selling at these rates in good faith and for the sake of the nation, even though we weren’t sure what exchange rate we would use to pay for the oil we bought. Simultaneously, a foreign trading company recently rented a depot facility adjacent to the Dangote Refinery for its purpose. to combine inferior goods that would be sold in order to compete with the superior output of Dangote Refinery. “This is harmful to Nigeria’s local refining industry’s expansion. We should note that nations frequently defend their home sectors in order to create jobs and boost their economies. For instance, in order to safeguard their home sectors, the US and Europe have been forced to slap high tariffs on microchips and EVs. READ ALSO: Atiku outlines the policies he would have implemented differently if he had been president: $10 billion for MSMEs and the progressive elimination of subsidies. We urge the public to ignore the purposeful misinformation being spread by those who would rather that we keep exporting jobs and importing poverty, even as we remain committed to offering reasonably priced, high-quality, domestically processed petroleum products in Nigeria.

Rhapsody of Realities, November 4th 2024, WORKS OF LOVE THROUGH US

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it (John 14:12-14). What a profound statement the Lord Jesus made in the verses above. He said, “…He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do….” He meant the works of love He continues to do by the Spirit through us because we’re the extension of His ministry. As the prophet Isaiah said, “…he shall see His seed, he shall prolong his days…” (Isaiah 53:10). He’s prolonging His days and continuing His ministry through us. This is so amazing. Always remember that you’re not alone; Christ is at work in you. Look closely at verse 14 of the opening verse: “If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.” Did you notice there’s no special clause here? There’s no conditions or exceptions; He said anything. Most people have never truly understood this enough to take advantage of it. The Lord Jesus said exactly what He meant and meant exactly what He said. Anything you ask in His Name is yours. Glory be to God! In John 16:23, He tells us more about the day of the Church: “And in that day ye shall ask me nothing….” At first glance, this may seem like a contradiction of what we read earlier in chapter 14. But if you go back to chapter 14 and read from verse 12, you’ll notice what He’s talking about. He said, “…He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.” The “greater works” are possible because Jesus has ascended to the Father and sent the Holy Spirit to empower us and impact the world with His love, power, and presence. We’re not limited. He has equipped us to do the same works that He did. This isn’t just about performing miracles; it’s about revealing the love and glory of God through our lives, just as Jesus did. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the privilege of doing the works of Jesus and even greater works through the power of your Spirit in me. I declare that I am a vessel of your love, power and glory, manifesting your presence in every situation. Thank you for the confidence and boldness to ask anything in the Name of Jesus, knowing that you will do it. I rejoice and rest in the assurance of your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:|| Mark 16:17-18And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. || || John 14:12-14 NIVVery truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. || Acts 1:8 AMPCBut you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and Samaria and to the ends (the very bounds) of the earth. DAILY AFFIRMATION: Thank You precious Father, for the provisions of the Gospel; I’m confident in all that You’ve done, and I take my place of dominion, reigning and ruling with You, for I know You’ve made all things mine. I’m what you say I am; I have all you say I have; and I can do all things in the Name of the Lord Jesus. I’m rich in all things because I’m a joint heir with Christ. I thank You Lord, for setting me apart as Your peculiar treasure, unique and special, born of the Spirit and the Word. Everywhere I go, I manifest Your virtues and perfection, living out my divine purpose. I am immune to every form of toxin, poison, or venom. I walk in the reality of who I am in Christ, a new creation with God’s indestructible and “uninfectable” life. My progress is unstoppable because I cannot be limited by sickness, disease, or the negativities of the ordinary life. As Jesus is above all things, so am I. The Holy Spirit has beautified my life. He brings colour into my life. I live a wonderful, colourful, beautiful, and productive life. I am vitalized, refreshed, renewed, and restored by the Holy Spirit daily. The Lord has brought me to a large place. I live in a land flowing with milk and honey. Every challenge is bread for me. I devour challenges, every target is bread for me. The Lord is with me and for me! The Lord delights in me, and He has given me an eternal testimony. Everywhere I go, testimonies and shouts of joy and victory abound all around me. I’m the expression of God’s fullness; He is my completeness. It makes no difference what challenges I face in life; there’s a force – an empowerment – at work in me to blaze through the barriers. I live in health, prosperity, and excellence. I have no lack in this life because all my needs are met in Christ Jesus. Satan has nothing in me because I

Atiku outlines the policies he would have implemented differently if he had been president: $10 billion for MSMEs and the progressive elimination of subsidies.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate for 2023, Atiku Abubakar, claims that if he had won the presidency of Nigeria, his reforms would have “benefited from more adequate preparations” and “more sufficient diagnostic assessment of the country’s conditions.” Abubakar claimed that his policy changes would have “protected our fragile economy against a much deeper crisis by preventing business collapse” in a post on his X account on Sunday. He called President Bola Tinubu’s administration “overkill” for raising the energy cost, floating the currency rate, and eliminating the gasoline subsidy. In order to “first eliminate revenue leakages arising from governance, including the cost of running the government and the government procurement process,” the former vice president stated that he would have set an example. He also said that “alternative approaches to conflict resolution such as diplomacy, intelligence, improved border control, deploying traditional institutions, and good neighborliness” would have been used by his administration. According to Abubakar, he would have established an economic stimulus fund (ESF) “to support MSMEs across all economic sectors with an initial investment capacity of approximately US$10 billion.” The former vice president claimed that even though he supported eliminating the gasoline subsidy, his government would have implemented the measures using “a gradualist approach.” “The abrupt and total elimination of subsidies would not have occurred. We used a gradualist approach while I was vice president, and we finished phases 1 and 2 of the reform before the end of our term, which is instructive,” he added. According to Abubakar, his government would have a “managed-floating system” of foreign exchange. “We would not be able to run an open, private sector-friendly economy under a fixed exchange rate system, so it was out of the question,” he stated. READ ALSO: Police Arrest 17 Nigerians, 113 Foreigners For Cybercrimes, Hacking But, considering Nigeria’s fundamental economic circumstances, implementing a floating exchange rate regime would be overkill. “We would have urged our central bank to handle foreign exchange in a gradualist manner. It would have been better to have a managed-floating system. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.

Police Arrest 17 Nigerians, 113 Foreigners For Cybercrimes, Hacking

130 people have been taken into custody by police for hacking and cybercrimes. According to Force spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the suspects include 113 foreign nationals and 17 Nigerians on Sunday. In a statement, Adejobi said that their actions were a threat to national security. “The suspects were allegedly using computers and other advanced devices to facilitate criminal activities at a building in the Next Cash and Carry area of Jahi, Abuja, where this strategic operation was carried out through a coordinated raid,” he said. “Officers from the Nigeria Police Force Zone 7 Command Abuja and the National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC) participated in the operation, which was directed by AIG Benneth Igweh, Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, on Saturday, November 3, 2024.” According to him, the Force is still looking into the matter, stating that a scientific analysis was being conducted on the exhibits that were retrieved from the accused. READ ALSO: Hardship: What I would have done differently – Atiku A force spokesperson went on to say that after the investigations were over, the accused will face charges in court. We love to have you back again. Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.

Hardship: What I would have done differently – Atiku

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the current administration for its “trial-and-error economic policies,” asserting that he would have taken a different approach if he had been elected President. In a statement he personally authored, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate from the last election accused President Tinubu’s government of implementing a “palliative” economy, something he believes should not have been done. Atiku attributed the country’s current economic difficulties to the reforms introduced by the present administration. He noted, “Unleashing reforms to establish a suitable exchange rate, cost-reflective electricity tariffs, and the price of PMS all at once is excessive.” While he supports the removal of subsidies, Atiku emphasized that his administration would have opted for a gradual approach, similar to what countries like Malaysia and Indonesia have done in recent years. He stated, “I’ve received numerous questions about what I would have done differently as President. The focus should be on President Tinubu and the critical actions he needs to take to alleviate the suffering caused by his experimental economic strategies.” Atiku expressed that his administration would have been more strategically planned, emphasizing thorough preparations, better diagnostic assessments of the country’s situation, and more extensive consultations with stakeholders. He pointed out that his reform agenda, outlined in his policy document “My Covenant With Nigerians,” was designed to protect the fragile economy from deeper crises and to support businesses effectively. He further argued, “Implementing reforms for exchange rates, tariffs, and fuel prices simultaneously is clearly overkill. Additionally, the Central Bank’s aggressive monetary tightening is problematic. As importers of petroleum products, removing subsidies without a stable exchange rate will lead to adverse effects.” Atiku insisted that a more strategic response to the fallout from reforms was necessary, highlighting the importance of not overestimating the benefits of reforms or underestimating their costs. He acknowledged that reforms can fail and that he would address institutional weaknesses proactively. He added, “I would have led by example. Any fiscal reforms aimed at improving liquidity must first address governance-related revenue leakages, including unnecessary government expenses. I and my team would not have indulged in luxury while citizens suffered.” The former Vice President emphasized that his reforms would be designed with empathy, advocating for a strong social protection program to genuinely support the poor and vulnerable instead of relying on a “palliative economy.” He outlined specific measures he would implement, including launching an Economic Stimulus Fund (ESF) with an initial capacity of around $10 billion to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across all sectors. Additionally, he proposed a targeted skills-to-job program for youth, addressing both graduates and those currently not engaged in education or employment. Atiku reiterated his long-standing call for subsidy removal on PMS, criticizing the opacity and potential for corruption in its administration. He highlighted the significant profits derived from oil subsidies that benefit certain elites within public and private sectors. He prioritized three main areas: READ ALSO: A Man Jailed For Attempting To Sit 2019 UTME Exam For Daughter In Abuja In summary, Atiku Abubakar presented a comprehensive vision for addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, contrasting it sharply with the current administration’s approach. We love having you back, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.

Pastor Chris Declare November The Month of the Eagle

November Communion Service: Declaring the Month of the Eagle As November arrives, many congregations around the world prepare for a special communion service that not only marks the beginning of the month but also sets a spiritual tone for the weeks to come. This year, a pastor has declared November as the “Month of the Eagle” during the November communion service, infusing the gathering with powerful symbolism and spiritual significance. The Significance of Communion Communion, also known as the Eucharist or the Lord’s Supper, is a sacred practice that holds deep meaning for believers. It is a time of reflection, remembrance, and renewal as congregants come together to share in the bread and the cup, symbolizing the body and blood of Christ. This act of communion serves as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and the covenant between God and humanity. By declaring November as the Month of the Eagle during this service, the pastor invites the congregation to embrace the themes of strength, renewal, and divine purpose associated with the eagle. The Eagle: A Symbol of Strength and Vision Eagles are majestic creatures often associated with power, freedom, and a keen perspective. In scripture, the eagle represents resilience and divine protection. Isaiah 40:31 tells us, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” This powerful verse encapsulates the essence of the Month of the Eagle, encouraging believers to trust in God’s strength and soar above their challenges. During the November communion service, the pastor can draw parallels between the act of communion and the attributes of the eagle: Enhancing the Communion Experience To fully embrace the declaration of November as the Month of the Eagle during the communion service, consider incorporating the following elements: Conclusion The declaration of November as the Month of the Eagle during the communion service is a powerful opportunity for spiritual growth and renewal. By embracing the symbolism of the eagle, congregants can find inspiration to rise above their challenges, seek God’s vision, and fulfill their purpose. As they gather to partake in communion, may they be reminded of the strength and grace that comes from their faith, soaring high on wings like eagles into the blessings and opportunities that lie ahead. READ ALSO: Rhapsody of Realities, November 3rd 2024.WATER BAPTISM AND THE HOLY COMMUNION We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.

A Man Jailed For Attempting To Sit 2019 UTME Exam For Daughter In Abuja

Jisos was given the choice to pay a N100,000 fine or serve a six-month prison sentence after his conviction. Jisos was found guilty on a single count by Justice Folashade Oyekan of an Abuja magistrate court, who then imposed the punishment. Jide Josiah Jisos received a six-month prison sentence for impersonation after being detained for it at the 2019 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Jisos was found guilty on a single count by Justice Folashade Oyekan of an Abuja magistrate court, who then imposed the punishment. Authorities from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) caught Jisos at Brix Academy in Abuja, where he pretended to be a representative of an NGO that was in charge of the test. He was arrested when he was unable to support his statements when questioned. READ ALSO: People who claim to receive credit alerts from prayer should be arrested — Peter Obi Jisos acknowledged during questioning that “I am not affiliated with any NGO,” exposing We love to have you back again. Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.

People who claim to receive credit alerts from prayer should be arrested — Peter Obi

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 election, recently made a provocative statement regarding those who claim to receive financial gains through prayer. During an interview on the Honest, Obi asserted that individuals who suggest they have received credit alerts as a result of praying should be scrutinized for possible theft. In the interview, Obi underscored the value of hard work and productivity, arguing that divine blessings are reserved for those who actively strive and contribute rather than for those who are passive. He remarked, “God can bless hard work; God can bless productivity; God can bless an industry, but God cannot bless someone who is sleeping.” This emphasis on diligence reflects a broader belief in the necessity of effort and commitment in achieving success. He went further to assert that anyone claiming to have received a financial alert through prayer should be considered suspicious. “Anyone who tells you that he got an alert from praying should be arrested. He has stolen someone’s money. Simple!” he declared, highlighting the potential consequences of such claims. The conversation then shifted to the topic of tithing, a practice often discussed within religious and financial contexts. Obi suggested that acts of charity can be seen as forms of tithing, arguing that helping those in need is a vital part of contributing to society. He stated, “If you go to the hospital, it’s tithing. If you help poor people, it’s tithing.” This perspective encourages a more inclusive view of giving that goes beyond traditional monetary donations. Additionally, Obi urged political leaders who are primarily motivated by financial gain to reconsider their roles in governance. He emphasized that true leadership should center on serving the populace rather than seeking personal enrichment. “Being a leader is not a money-making venture. You’re not competing with Dangote. Dangote is a businessman. You should focus on what you were elected for,” he advised, advocating for a return to the core responsibilities of public service. Obi also highlighted the importance of clarity in career choices, stating, “You must choose your lane; if you want to be in government, be in government and serve the people. If you want to be a businessman, go and trade.” This statement underscores the necessity for leaders to remain dedicated to their roles and the communities they serve. READ ALSO: Rights group calls for release of minors charged over Nigeria protests His comments have generated a range of reactions from the Nigerian public, particularly his suggestion to transform church vigils into night shifts to boost productivity. This idea has sparked debates about the intersection of faith, work, and community involvement, challenging traditional views on worship and productivity in Nigerian society. As Obi continues to engage with these critical issues, he remains a figure of considerable interest in the ongoing political discourse. We love to have you back again. Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.

Rights group calls for release of minors charged over Nigeria protests

The Nigerian government is under mounting pressure to dismiss charges against numerous minors amid growing concerns over the conditions of their detention. These minors were arrested due to their alleged involvement in protests against the rising cost of living. On Friday, a total of 76 individuals, including 30 minors aged between 14 and 17, were arraigned on multiple felony charges, such as treason, property destruction, public disturbance, and mutiny, according to the Associated Press. The sight of these young individuals fainting in court in Abuja has sparked significant outrage among politicians and civil society. Many of them have been held in detention for three months since their arrests in August. Footage from the court showed minors so weakened that they struggled to remain standing, with some collapsing from exhaustion and malnutrition. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi commented on the situation, highlighting the alarming conditions the minors are facing. Amnesty International condemned the detainment of these minors, describing it as “horrifying” and an aggressive attempt to stifle freedom of assembly in response to protests against hunger and corruption. In contrast, the Nigerian Inspector General of Police’s office denied any mistreatment of the detainees, asserting that medical assistance was provided. They emphasized that being underage does not exempt individuals from legal accountability, with police spokesperson Muyiwa Ogunjobi stating that anyone over the age of seven could face charges. The minors have been granted bail, and their attorneys indicated that the case is set to go to trial in January. On Sunday, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), a human rights organization in Nigeria, urged President Bola Tinubu to take action and release the minors within 48 hours. They argued that these children, along with other protesters, are being held solely for exercising their rights peacefully. SERAP also called for an investigation into the severe human rights violations affecting the minors and other protesters. Reports from Nigeria’s Punch news website indicated that the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Lateef Fagbemi, has initiated steps to withdraw the charges against the minors. READ ALSO: Cardi B denies getting paid to endorse Kamala Harris for president Frustration over the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has triggered widespread protests in Nigeria in recent months. In August, at least 20 individuals were killed, and hundreds were arrested during a demonstration advocating for better job opportunities and living conditions for young people. We love to have you back, Kindly Subscribe to our Newsletter.