Nigeria’s challenge lies in failing to harness the successes of past reforms. One prime example is the transformation of the telecommunications sector through privatisation, marked by the denationalisation efforts that reshaped the industry. Prior to these changes, Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), a state-run entity founded in 1985, struggled with inefficiencies, obsolete infrastructure, and limited service. By the late 1990s, it was clear that state control hindered growth and couldn’t keep up with rising demand. The pivotal National Telecommunication Policy of 2000 paved the way for the privatisation of NITEL and the sector’s deregulation. The auction of GSM licenses by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in 2001 revolutionised the industry, leading to unprecedented expansion. By 2020, mobile phone usage had surged from a mere 0.4% in 2000 to over 80%. However, when Nigeria attempted a similar approach with the power sector in 2013, the outcome was vastly different. Rather than attracting competent investors, the process drew speculators lacking technical skills and financial strength. Despite inheriting significant assets from the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and receiving trillions in government support, the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) have been unable to ensure reliable power. Financial troubles plague all 12 DISCOs, with five taken over by banks or the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria. The Central Bank of Nigeria has injected over N2 trillion to enhance power generation and distribution, yet the capacity remains below 5,000 megawatts for a population exceeding 200 million. A telling sign of DISCOs’ shortcomings is their failure to meter 8 million of their 13.2 million customers over a decade, contributing to their financial difficulties. In 2020, the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) launched the Service-Based Tariff (SBT) system, segmenting customers into bands (A to E) based on their electricity supply hours and usage, with higher tariffs for higher consumption. For instance, Band A users, receiving a minimum of 20 hours of power daily, pay the most. While this system aimed to reflect cost and ensure payment proportionality, it defies typical economic principles. Unlike volume discounts, SBT penalises higher usage with higher costs, pressuring manufacturers who already struggle under a 30% borrowing interest rate. The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has highlighted that over 500 companies have shut down due to these burdens. The liquidity crisis in the power sector, estimated at N3.7 trillion, threatens electricity generation. Although the rationale behind tariff hikes was to infuse liquidity and improve services, DISCOs’ collection efficiency remains poor. Between 2020 and 2024, they billed N3.96 trillion but collected only N2.86 trillion, losing 30% of potential revenue. Unpaid bills in July 2024 alone amounted to N28.97 billion, representing nearly 18% of their revenue. Additionally, neighboring countries made no remittances on $14.39 million in invoices, highlighting inefficiencies passed onto consumers as high tariffs. Initially targeting affluent estates and commercial areas, SBT’s high tariffs have spread to diverse socioeconomic communities. While elites offset costs through alternative energy sources, lower-income groups face hardships. Companies with the means, like Just Rite Superstores, have opted for off-grid solutions—spending $6.5 million due to high tariffs and poor service. However, not many businesses can afford such measures, limiting growth and job creation. READ ALSO: Nasarawa to track killers of military officer, others With energy expenses comprising 35-40% of production costs, and bank interest rates at about 30%, the industrial sector continues to suffer. Lessons could be taken from countries like Kenya, where reduced energy tariffs stimulate industrial growth. While telecom firms in Nigeria attract customers with incentives, pseudo-privatised DISCOs push for continuous tariff hikes, harming the economy. Experts argue that revamping the flawed power sector privatisation by involving more competent, technically adept, and financially solid investors is essential to revitalise the sector.
The leadership of Obi Local Government Area has committed to holding accountable those involved in the recent outbreak of violence in Agyaragu, the main town of Jenkwe Development Area. Isa Sani, Chairman of Obi Local Government Council, made this declaration during a visit to assess the damage at the two police stations that were set ablaze in the town. Reports from November 3, 2024, indicate that a dispute between a military officer and police personnel in Agyaragu, triggered by a motorcycle accident, escalated, resulting in the death of the soldier and several civilians. In the ensuing chaos, the police divisional headquarters in Jenkwe, other police facilities, and vehicles were vandalized. During his visit, accompanied by his deputy and members of the legislative council, Sani condemned the violence and emphasized that such acts undermine Governor Abdullahi Sule’s peace initiatives. He assured that those responsible would face arrest and prosecution under the law. He urged residents, especially the youth, to avoid vigilantism and to report disputes to authorities to maintain peace. At the palace of Dr. Ayuba Agwadu-Audu, the Zhe Migili, Sani expressed solidarity with the traditional rulers of Jenkwe. He also announced financial assistance for the medical treatment and burial expenses of those injured and deceased. Additionally, he pledged to provide temporary facilities for police operations to help sustain law and order in the area. Traditional leaders, including Dr. Agwadu-Audu and Zhe Musha, Joshua Kyari, expressed their appreciation for the council’s actions and committed to supporting efforts to identify the culprits behind the incident. Sani, along with his deputy, also visited the residence of the District Head of Duglu, which had been damaged by youth following a chieftaincy disagreement. He called for restraint and assured that measures would be put in place to prevent future occurrences. In related efforts, the Security Council of Obi LGA met at Sani’s office to strategize on recovering and securing the damaged properties. After the meeting, Sani stated that security heads briefed the council on the root causes of the violence, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations to bring those responsible to justice. Sani voiced his concern over the significant setback the incident posed to Obi LGA and Nasarawa State as a whole. He outlined plans to work with local leaders and vigilante groups to protect the affected police stations. Speaking on behalf of Obi’s traditional leaders, the Osuko of Obi, Alhaji Aliyu Dangiwa Ogiri Orume, praised the meeting’s timeliness and called for patience and respect for authority among the community to sustain peace and harmony.
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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has instructed its members in states that have yet to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act to initiate an indefinite strike from December 1, 2024. This directive was part of the resolutions from the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held over the weekend. The NLC expressed frustration over the delays and outright refusals by certain state governments to enact the new minimum wage. The NEC described this as a betrayal by state leaders, which violates both legal and moral obligations. It pointed out that many workers are denied fair compensation amidst worsening economic conditions, deeming it a severe disregard for both the law and the livelihood of millions of Nigerian workers. As a response, the NLC has decided to establish a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee tasked with conducting assessments, mobilizing workers, and raising awareness nationwide. The committee will lead a campaign to inform workers and the public on the necessity of opposing this violation of workers’ rights. The NLC emphasized that strikes and other industrial actions would persist in states that do not comply with the minimum wage law by November 30, 2024. In another development, the NLC has accused petroleum marketers of inflating petrol prices, asserting that these prices are much higher than the market value. According to the NLC, these marketers are taking advantage of Nigerians and worsening the economic burden already imposed by stringent government policies. The NEC expressed concern over the manipulation of petrol pricing, indicating that there seems to be an exploitative collaboration among influential industry figures. It pointed to the conflict between marketers and the Dangote Group as evidence of price padding and excessive profit margins. This, the NLC believes, contributes to the delay in fully operationalizing local public refineries, such as those in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, which could disrupt the dominance of powerful players in the industry. The NLC urged for fair pricing and called for domestic refineries to resume operations swiftly to weaken the monopolistic control in the sector. READ ALSO: Fani-Kayode Slams Kemi Badenoch as Tool of Colonialist Regarding Nigeria’s worsening economic climate, the NLC highlighted deep concerns over the escalating financial strain on citizens, driven by unchecked inflation and soaring costs of essential goods and services. The NLC called on the Federal Government to introduce comprehensive, tangible measures to alleviate citizens’ suffering. It demanded robust social protection programs that would combat poverty, ensure affordable healthcare, and implement a wage that aligns with the true cost of living. The NLC also pushed for a general wage review and the revision of policies that have hindered the well-being of the Nigerian people.
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Former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has called Kemi Badenoch, the newly-elected leader of the British Conservative Party, a “dangerous and willing tool of colonialists.”In a post on his X account on Sunday, Fani-Kayode expressed outrage over Badenoch’s comments, which included describing Nigeria, her country of origin, as a “living hell.” He argued that her remarks suggested she might be afflicted by “Stockholm syndrome.”Fani-Kayode criticized Nigerians who support figures that disparage their homeland for political gains. According to him, while Nigeria faces challenges, it is unacceptable to align with those who undermine the country for personal or political advancement. He accused Badenoch of aligning with the far-right faction of the British Conservative Party and disparaging Nigeria, her ancestral homeland, to secure a leadership position, which he described as disgraceful.“I have seen many justifications for her statements, but none hold water,” Fani-Kayode stated. He argued that embracing those who regard one as inferior is not commendable but problematic.He further emphasized that running down Nigeria should not be a strategy for winning political contests abroad, and no patriotic Nigerian should support such behavior.Fani-Kayode concluded: “Kemi is a deceitful, dangerous, and willing pawn of colonial and imperial powers, representing everything a patriotic Nigerian and Pan-Africanist should oppose. Unless she renounces her contempt, I will continue to view her like Brutus from Shakespeare’s play, whose betrayal was most painful and whose stab was ‘the deepest of all. READ ALSO: Checkpoint Tragedy: Officers Leave Duty, Now Face Murder Charges
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In an unexpected twist where law enforcers become lawbreakers, three police officers face the consequences of their actions, accused of criminal profiling gone wrong and resulting in tragedy. These officers are now set to answer to charges of murder involving a young student, as reported by Nicholas Uwerunonye.On October 16, at a magistrate court in Ilorin, Kwara State, Abiodun Kayode, James Emmanuel, and Oni Philip appeared without their police uniforms, a far cry from their former authoritative presence. Once responsible for bringing others to justice, they now found themselves seeking mercy. This reversal followed their dismissal from the police force, stemming from accusations of involvement in the killing of Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola, a student of Kwara State Polytechnic. The incident underscores longstanding grievances held by students and the public regarding police conduct and profiling.According to the charges, the officers will face trial for criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide linked to Ishola’s death on September 4. On that day, Ishola was discovered in critical condition by his grandfather, Abdulrahman Ero-Alujana, following a call from a relative. Ishola reportedly identified a police officer as his attacker before being taken to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The case incited outrage at Ishola’s school, with the Students’ Union Government issuing an ultimatum to the police for immediate action, warning of continuous protests if justice was not served. The students criticized the police for their alleged continued harassment and extortion of young people, even after the tragedy.Following an internal inquiry, facts emerged: Kayode and Emmanuel were inspectors, while Philip held the rank of sergeant. READ ALSO: New terror group, Lakurawa, Kills 15, rustles 100 cows in Kebbi All three were found guilty of abandoning their duty post, engaging in corruption, and unnecessary use of authority, which led to their dismissal on October 4, 2024. DSP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the Police Public Relations Officer, stated that the dismissals aligned with Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun’s commitment to justice and accountability. The case was then assigned to the Kwara State Criminal Investigation Department. Their findings implicated Kayode, Emmanuel, and Philip in a coordinated attack on Ishola. Philip admitted to chasing Ishola on Kayode’s orders and later informing his colleagues, confirming their collective involvement in Ishola’s death.The three former officers now face charges of criminal conspiracy and homicide as the investigation concluded they pursued, assaulted, and left the student fatally injured.
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A new armed group known as Lakurawa has reportedly killed 15 people and stolen over 100 cattle in Mera, located in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State. Alhaji Bashir Isah Mera (Yariman Mera), a notable figure in the area, confirmed to Daily Trust that the attack occurred as residents were preparing for Jumat prayers. The armed group took away more than 100 cattle during the raid. In response, hundreds of townspeople mobilized and chased the attackers into the bush, attempting to reclaim the stolen livestock. This led to a gunfight in which 15 people from the town were killed, while two of the attackers were also reportedly killed. Mera noted that the Lakurawa group operates from their hideouts in the forests of Sokoto, coordinating such attacks from there. Initially, their activities involved seizing cattle and demanding ‘Zakat’ payments from the owners without causing fatalities. However, this attack marked the first time they had taken lives in the town. Governor Nasir Idris contacted Mera twice, expressing deep concern over the violence and ordering the deployment of military forces to help stabilize the community. Additionally, the commander of Dukku barracks, along with the heads of DSS and the police, have mobilized joint security forces to restore peace in Mera and surrounding areas. The Deputy Governor, Senator Abubakar Umar Tafida, and the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mera, visited the town to offer condolences to the families of the victims. They assured residents that the governor is committed to protecting the community from future assaults by the group. Efforts to reach SP Nafiu Abubakar, the Public Relations Officer of the Kebbi State Police Command, for comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. READ ALSO:
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Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of borrowing between N2 billion and N5 billion to fund the inauguration of the incoming administration. Speaking at the inauguration of a 10-member caretaker committee of the State’s PDP in Benin City, Governor Obaseki stated that nearly N27 billion, reserved for ongoing projects and obligations by his government, had already been accessed by the new administration. He criticized this expenditure, expressing concern that these funds were being used during a holiday period to create confusion and shift public perception. Obaseki further lamented that his administration was excluded from the inauguration ceremony, indicating that the incoming government was treating the event as the start of a completely new regime. Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC, who defeated the PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, in the September 2024 gubernatorial election, is set to be sworn in on November 12, 2024. Governor Obaseki reassured the PDP that he would remain committed to the party and provide guidance, emphasizing that they would reclaim what he called a stolen mandate for the sake of democracy in Nigeria. He stressed that if the APC retained the governorship, it could signal the erosion of democratic values in the country. PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, urged party members to prepare for a challenging legal battle to reclaim the mandate. He outlined that responses to petitions were expected in the coming days, with the pre-hearing phase anticipated to begin by late November. Meanwhile, the APC in Edo State has accused Obaseki’s administration of misappropriating N14 billion out of N24.6 billion recently deposited in the state’s account. The party also claimed that Obaseki had sought and secured approval for three supplementary budgets since January 2024, including a N450 billion budget passed just before the September election. READ ALSO:
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The Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) has contributed N5.5 million to support Borno State’s recovery efforts for Borno Radio and Television (BRTV) following the devastating flood in Maiduguri, which resulted in loss of life and property. BON Chairman and Director General of NTA, Abdulhamid Salisu, along with other BON officials, presented the donation to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum in Abuja on Friday. Salisu expressed that the visit was to extend sympathy to the governor and the people of Borno State and to support the rehabilitation of the state’s broadcasting services. “We are here with a cheque of N5.5 million on behalf of BON to sympathize with the government and the people of Borno State for the flood that occurred in October,” Salisu said. “The amount is intended to aid the restoration of the broadcast organization in Borno. I am pleased to present this cheque, and a list of the contributors is attached.” Among the BON representatives present were Executive Secretary Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, Director Usman Umar Bello, and Alh. Isma’il Sani. Governor Zulum expressed gratitude for the gesture, emphasizing that the donation would significantly assist in rebuilding the state’s media institution. “On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I want to sincerely thank the DG NTA and BON Chairman for this act of solidarity after the flood disaster that has affected our people,” Zulum stated. He assured that the funds would be used efficiently by BRTV for recovery efforts and added, “I also assure you that we will complement your support with rapid development of the BRTV.” The governor also extended special thanks to NTA Maiduguri for their ongoing dedication and service. READ ALSO:
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The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the emergence of a new terrorist group known as ‘Lukarawas’ in the Northwestern part of Nigeria. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, disclosed this to newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, November 7, while speaking on the operations of the military. Buba said that the new terror group emerged from the Republic of Niger after the coup that led to the breakdown of military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger.He said that the terrorists began incursion into northern parts of Sokoto and Kebbi States from the Niger Republic and Mali axis, particularly after the coup in Niger Republic.According to him, before the coup, there were joint border operations with Nigerien security forces, which kept the terrorists at bay. The terrorists took advantage of the gaps in cooperation between both countries and exploited difficult terrains to make incursions in remote areas in some North Western states to spread their ideology,” he said. Buba said that the group was accommodated by the locals, who initially thought that the group meant well for them, adding that they failed to report the movement to the military and security agencies. He assuranced Nigerians that the Nigerian troops have sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to degrade the terrorists. He added that the terror group had continued to take advantage of the vast under-governed areas to hide and evade troops as well as harass the locals.According to him, troops are locating them and eliminating the threat. READ ALSO: NLC Vows to Oppose Any Efforts to Halt Payment of Workers’ Salaries in Rivers State
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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reiterated its commitment to fighting for the rights of workers in Rivers State. Joe Ajaero, the NLC National President, made this declaration during the NLC National Executive Council meeting held in Rivers State on Friday. Ajaero also issued a stern warning, stating that the NLC would not remain passive while workers in the state face difficulties. He emphasized that the NLC would strongly oppose any efforts to prevent the payment of salaries to Rivers State workers. The NLC president urged the judiciary to be cautious in its actions, warning that decisions that could destabilize the state should be avoided, as they could lead to self-destruction. LMSINT MEDIA previously reported that a Federal High Court had recently ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria and other financial institutions to stop granting the Rivers State Government access to its state allocations. More details to follow… READ ALSO:
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Elon Musk has made headlines with the unveiling of Tesla’s $1,000 E-Bike, a move that has created waves across the globe. Known for breaking new ground in the automotive and energy sectors, Tesla is now venturing into the electric bike market, aiming to transform city commuting. With its $1,000 price tag, the Tesla E-Bike challenges industry standards and puts major players like Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, and BMW on alert. Musk’s commitment to a more sustainable and efficient mode of transport is clear, positioning the E-Bike as a potential game-changer for everyday travel. Tesla’s entry into the e-bike market signals significant competition for established brands like Specialized and Trek, who have long dominated the sector. Now, they must contend with Tesla’s innovative technology and competitive pricing. The Tesla E-Bike stands out for its modern design and state-of-the-art features, incorporating Tesla’s renowned battery advancements and eco-friendly solutions. The announcement also raises questions about the potential impact on the broader electric vehicle industry, including companies such as Rad Power Bikes, and discusses the implications for the future of sustainable transportation. READ ALSO:
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On Thursday evening, gunmen attacked the Quarry Camp in Akamkpa Local Government Area, Cross River State, killing a police inspector and kidnapping two Chinese nationals. The incident was confirmed by SP Nelson Okpabi, the police spokesperson for Zone 6, in a statement issued in Calabar on Friday. SP Okpabi reported that a Nigerian was also taken alongside the two Chinese individuals. The assailants, dressed in military camouflage, seized an AK-47 rifle from the fallen officer. He explained that the gunmen managed to enter the quarry site due to a security lapse at the gate, which was unintentionally caused by a worker. Jonathan Towuru, the Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) in charge of Zone 6, has ordered an extensive search to locate and apprehend the culprits, asserting that justice will be served. The police have called on the public to stay vigilant and provide any information that could help in capturing those responsible for the attack. READ ALSO:
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Officials from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have allegedly killed a youth named Faisal Yakubu Hussaini in Dangi, the main town of Kanam Local Government Area in Plateau State. According to Daily Trust, community members reported that NDLEA agents raided a lodge in the area, causing panic by firing gunshots and ultimately killing Hussaini during the raid. The locals stated they questioned the officers about the nature of any alleged crime but received no response. The incident was strongly condemned by Barrister G Aliyu and ND Shehu Kanam, Chairman and Secretary of the Kanam Development Association (KADA), respectively. The Secretary expressed deep shock and anger, stating, “The Kanam Development Association (KADA) is outraged by the extrajudicial killing of Faisal Yakubu Hussaini Adafa by NDLEA officers in Dengi, Kanam LGA, on Thursday, November 7, 2024. “This act is an egregious violation of the victim’s fundamental human rights. While we recognize the NDLEA’s mandate to act within the law, we denounce this violent and unjustified killing. Such actions erode public trust and confidence in law enforcement. We demand the immediate arrest and prosecution of the officers involved in this grave incident. “We call on our youth to remain peaceful and law-abiding as we pursue all necessary legal actions to address this brutal act. We are determined to ensure that justice is upheld and that this matter does not go unaddressed.” READ ALSO:
