Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, has strongly appealed to the Nigerian Government to intervene swiftly in the ongoing leadership and administrative crisis at the University of Calabar (UNICAL). The controversy, centered on the graduation and professional induction quota for dental students, has sparked concerns of academic stagnation and institutional negligence. Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday, Obi conveyed deep concern over the unfolding situation. He decried the matter as an unfortunate manifestation of leadership failure, emphasizing that no Nigerian student should have their future jeopardized because of bureaucratic inefficiencies or lapses in institutional governance. Obi mentioned that he became aware of the gravity of the issue after visiting the Faculty of Dental Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). During his engagement, stakeholders briefed him extensively on the crisis affecting UNICAL dental students. “Irrespective of the underlying cause, the undeniable fact remains — it is unjust for students to endure the consequences of administrative shortcomings,” Obi asserted in his statement. “Our educational system must be robust enough to empower young Nigerians, particularly in vital disciplines such as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).” Drawing from his governance experience, Obi recounted facing a parallel challenge during his administration in Anambra State. He narrated how the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria once withdrew accreditation from the state’s medical school at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University. The revocation stemmed from the absence of an approved teaching hospital, putting medical students’ careers on the line and threatening to derail years of academic commitment. However, rather than allowing the students’ academic journey to collapse, Obi disclosed that his administration swiftly took action. Within a record time of 18 months, his government successfully constructed and inaugurated the Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital in Awka. This strategic move reinstated the institution’s accreditation, thereby safeguarding the academic and professional aspirations of countless students. He therefore called on the Federal Government to provide not just financial backing but also institutional support to UNICAL authorities to ensure the matter is resolved without further delay. “It is imperative that the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, alongside her management team, is fully equipped and supported to address this crisis immediately. No student should be penalized for issues completely beyond their control,” Obi emphasized. Additionally, Obi raised an alarm over the persistent neglect of Nigeria’s education and healthcare sectors. He implored the nation’s leaders to treat these foundational pillars with urgency and dedication, recognizing their direct impact on the wellbeing and prospects of young Nigerians. For updates on similar educational challenges and governance interventions, you can read further from reputable sources like the Premium Times Nigeria and stay informed through institutional updates from the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC).
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all (Acts 3:16). The authority of the Name of Jesus is unparalleled. If He were an ordinary man, His name would have no power. But there’s power in His Name. The book of Acts shows us how the disciples used His Name to cast out demons, heal the sick, and perform miracles. His Name is not just a title; it carries authority and power. In Acts 3, Luke tells us about the miraculous healing of a certain man who was crippled from birth and laid at the gate of the temple called Beautiful. The miracle attracted the attention of a large crowd, and Peter, seizing the moment, addressed the crowd, explaining the source of the healing to be the Name of Jesus. He said, “And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all” (Acts 3:16). He emphasized that it was through faith in the Name of Jesus that the man was made strong and restored to health. The authority and power in the Name of Jesus demonstrate His deity. His Name carries the fullness of His power, His life, and His authority. No wonder the Bible tells us, “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth” (Philippians 2:9-10). His Name reigns supreme over all things. Use it to cast out devils, heal the sick, and walk in perpetual victory. Live in the fullness of His power and authority today through the dominion and majesty of His Name. Amen. PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for the authority vested in the Name of Jesus. That wonderful Name reigns supreme over all things, and through faith in His Name, I cast out devils, heal the sick, and walk in perpetual victory. I live in the fullness of His power and authority today. Thank you Lord, for the power and majesty of the Name of Jesus. Amen. FURTHER STUDYPhilippians 2:9-11Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth; 11 And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 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 14:13-14And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do [it]. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 26:2-18 & Psalms 17-18 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 9:37-48 & Joshua 15 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Every day I wake up, I am reinvigorated in my spirit, soul, and body. I am full of life and vitality. My mind is alert, my body is energized, and my muscles, tendons, and ligaments are strengthened. I am an offspring of God’s Word; therefore, as the Word is, so am I. God’s Word is ageless; thus, I refuse to age in my spirit, soul, and body. I live in agelessness! I am forever blossoming in my soul, vibrant in my health, and fervent in my spirit. Whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world! I am born of God; therefore, I have overcome the world and its deceptions, limitations, and negativities. I am impervious to sickness, disease, infirmity, sadness, depression, anxiety, and everything that is of this world. Joy overflows in my heart always, and I am strengthened with might in my inner man. I’ve passed from death to life, from sin to righteousness, and from sickness to health. I live above the limitations of the human body and the physical realm through the ability of God’s Spirit. Health, peace, joy, and the glorious life are my present-hour inheritance. I am a king and my words are full of power and authority; therefore I live a life of victory, success, divine health, abundance, excellence, and glory. I am not a victim but a victor. God’s Word is producing what it talks about in my life. I am strengthened with divine enablement in my inner man by the Holy Ghost. I function today with the Spirit of might, dominion, and excellence. My life is filled with the goodness and mercy of God. I refuse to be brought down by sickness. The Name of Jesus has been named upon me, and daily, I enjoy the impact of God’s divine presence in my life! I declare that my physical body is vitalized by the power of God’s Spirit, and it is shielded and protected from all evil. I go out with joy, and I am led forth with peace, the mountains and the hills break forth before me into singing. I am an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ. I have been given access to the inexhaustible, unfathomable, riches of Christ. I am a man of influence, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues
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Galatasaray have officially made an initial payment of €40 million to Napoli to secure the permanent signing of Nigerian forward, Victor Osimhen. This move is a significant step in concluding a long-anticipated transfer, especially after Osimhen’s successful loan spell with the Turkish Super Lig champions. As reported by highly reputable football journalist, Fabrizio Romano, both clubs are now wrapping up the finer aspects of the deal. In addition to the upfront payment, Galatasaray have agreed to settle an extra €35 million with Napoli within the next year. This staged payment structure confirms the clubs’ commitment to finalizing the total transfer sum for the 26-year-old striker. Romano further disclosed that Napoli have included a strict penalty clause in the agreement. This clause prevents Galatasaray from reselling Osimhen to any club within Italy for the next two years, safeguarding Napoli’s domestic competition interests. Such clauses are common in high-profile transfers, designed to limit immediate competition within the selling club’s league. Despite the progress, both clubs are still ironing out specific final clauses, particularly concerning a potential sell-on percentage. This element is critical as Napoli seek to secure future financial benefits if Osimhen is transferred again. Victor Osimhen, who spent the previous season on loan at Galatasaray, has expressed a strong desire to remain with the Turkish giants. His performances during the loan period elevated Galatasaray’s attacking strength, making him a fan favourite. Interestingly, the Super Eagles star reportedly turned down lucrative contract proposals from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal. This decision underscores Osimhen’s preference for continuing his career in Turkey, prioritizing competitive European football over monetary gains in the Middle East. The finalization of Osimhen’s permanent move is expected to bolster Galatasaray’s squad depth significantly ahead of the upcoming UEFA competitions and domestic campaigns. Fans of the Istanbul-based club eagerly await the official confirmation of all contract terms, including the sell-on clause. For Napoli, this deal represents a strategic financial recovery, allowing the club to reinvest in their squad while ensuring they are not directly strengthening Italian rivals.
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Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly informed his close associates in Istanbul, Turkey, of his imminent visit to the city, further fueling speculations surrounding his anticipated move to Galatasaray. The update came from Yakup Çınar, a well-regarded journalist covering Galatasaray, who shared this information while analyzing the club’s current transfer developments on the Yeni Açık YouTube channel. Çınar revealed, as cited by habersarikirmizi, that during the ongoing transfer window, Osimhen had been largely unresponsive to calls from many of his Istanbul-based friends. “As of today, Osimhen has begun replying to them and mentioned directly, ‘I’ll be coming to Istanbul soon.’ At the same time, he remains attentive to developments in Italy,” Çınar commented. Negotiations between Galatasaray and Napoli have reportedly advanced, with both clubs reaching a consensus regarding bank guarantees and payment schedules tied to Osimhen’s prospective permanent transfer to the Turkish champions this summer. Under the terms of the agreement, Galatasaray will fulfill Osimhen’s €75 million release clause, structured in two payments: an initial €40 million, followed by the remaining €35 million payable within a year. Last season, Osimhen was on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, where he delivered commendable performances that significantly bolstered the Turkish side’s attacking prowess.
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Zambia’s Copper Queens head coach, Nora Häuptle, has admitted that Nigeria’s Super Falcons were superior in their quarter-final clash, reports LMSINT MEDIA. The Super Falcons of Nigeria delivered an emphatic 5-0 victory over Zambia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Friday, during the ongoing WAFCON 2024 tournament. Despite Zambia’s strong football reputation, the Copper Queens appeared overwhelmed and displayed a lackluster performance throughout the match. During the first half, Nigeria stamped their authority with goals from Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chiwendu Ihezuo, leaving Zambia trailing. The Nigerian team further extended their lead in the second half, courtesy of Tosin Demehin and Folashade Ijamilusi, sealing the 5-0 demolition. In a post-match interview, Nora Häuptle, a Swiss national, conceded that her team was completely outclassed by the nine-time WAFCON champions. “It was a very clear defeat for us. Congratulations to Nigeria on a well-deserved win. We must acknowledge that today, Nigeria was the better team,” Häuptle stated. For more on the Super Falcons’ performance and WAFCON 2024 updates, check our African Football news section.
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Top Premier League giants, Chelsea and Arsenal, are reportedly eyeing a potential summer move for Xavi Simons, the highly-rated midfielder currently playing for German Bundesliga side, RB Leipzig. According to renowned football transfer analyst, Fabrizio Romano, both Chelsea and Arsenal are fully aware of Simons’ situation and may act on the opportunity during the current transfer window. Despite this growing interest, no official negotiations or offers have been tabled by any Premier League side as of now. Additionally, Barcelona are rumored to be keen on reuniting with Xavi Simons, having developed him during his formative years. Nevertheless, reports confirm that discussions between Barcelona and Leipzig remain informal with no definitive agreements reached. In another transfer development, Inter Milan’s sporting director, Piero Ausilio, has publicly disclosed that midfielder Kristian Asllani has been instructed to seek a new club this summer. During a press conference on Friday, Ausilio clarified: “We have officially informed Kristian Asllani that he is free to find a new club ahead of the next season.” Meanwhile, Manchester City are contemplating the return of their former goalkeeper, James Trafford, during this transfer window. The potential comeback to Etihad Stadium hinges on the departure of one of City’s two senior goalkeepers. Fabrizio Romano noted that preliminary discussions have already taken place in recent days. Manchester City possess a buy-back clause on Trafford, which grants them the option to re-sign him. This clause has notably delayed Newcastle United’s attempt to finalize a deal for the English goalkeeper. For verified updates on football transfers, visit Fabrizio Romano’s official updates.
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Portuguese football legend and current Fenerbahce coach, Jose Mourinho, has publicly affirmed his intentions to return to Portugal, but not as a retiree or during his career’s twilight phase. Rather, Mourinho disclosed that he plans to make his comeback to his homeland while he is still in peak form, both mentally and physically. The 62-year-old tactician, renowned for his illustrious coaching career across Europe’s top leagues, made this revelation following Fenerbahce’s 2-1 pre-season victory over Portimonense. The friendly match was held in Albufeira, Portugal, and marked an emotional visit for Mourinho on home soil. Currently, Mourinho is tied to a one-year contract with Turkish giants Fenerbahce, and his remarks have ignited conversations among football enthusiasts and pundits regarding his next career move. Mourinho’s Commitment to Return Home In a candid interview with Sport TV, Mourinho emphatically stated that his return to Portugal is inevitable but clarified that it won’t signify the end of his professional journey. He dismissed any notions of a “golden retirement” phase in Portugal, reinforcing his desire to return while still operating at his highest capacity. “I will undoubtedly return to Portugal,” Mourinho stated. “It hasn’t happened yet, but it will. It’s not because I think I’m reaching the end — far from it. I want to return to Portugal while I’m still in excellent shape, in full health, and mentally sharp. My return won’t be for a comfortable, final run but while I’m still at the top of my game.” This declaration aligns with Mourinho’s consistent message about his enduring passion for coaching and competing at the highest levels. Despite a career that has spanned prestigious clubs such as Chelsea, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and Manchester United, Mourinho maintains his ambition and drive to continue leading teams with distinction. Contractual Situation and Future Prospects With just 12 months remaining on his current deal with Fenerbahce, speculation is rife about where Mourinho might head next after Turkey. Given his expressed desire to return to Portugal, clubs within the Primeira Liga, such as FC Porto or Sporting CP, might be potential destinations for the decorated coach. Additionally, this statement dispels any assumptions that Mourinho is slowing down or preparing for retirement. His emphasis on returning “at the height of my career” signals that he still envisions several more competitive years ahead before considering a retirement timeline. For fans and analysts tracking Mourinho’s next chapter, his recent comments provide a clearer insight into his career ambitions and enduring connection to Portugal.
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Popular Nigerian Afrobeats icon, Davido, has humorously revealed that his wife, Chioma, would not take it lightly if he dares follow another woman on Instagram. The award-winning artist shared this during a stopover in the United States while on his 5ive Star Tour, which has been drawing massive attention globally. In a viral video currently circulating across social media platforms, a bold female admirer, dressed in an exposing outfit, playfully pleaded with Davido to follow her on Instagram. However, Davido instantly declined the request with a cheeky response, emphasizing that his loyalty on social media remains strictly reserved for his wife. Amidst loud laughter and cheers from the excited audience, the lady had asked: “Can you follow me on Instagram?” In response, Davido said: “No, my wife will kill me. I don’t follow anyone else. I only follow my wife.” This playful exchange quickly trended online, further showcasing Davido’s commitment to his wife, Chioma. It is worth noting that LMSINT MEDIA earlier reported that Davido officially tied the knot with Chioma in a grand and widely celebrated wedding ceremony held in Lagos State back in June 2024. The event was one of the most talked-about celebrity weddings in Nigeria.
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A renewed communal conflict between Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State and Vandiekya Local Government Area of Benue State has claimed at least two lives. The violence erupted on Friday after reports emerged that two farmers from Abonkib and Atiekpe villages in Obudu were allegedly attacked and murdered on their farmlands by individuals identified as Tiv natives. Shockingly, their bodies were allegedly taken away by the attackers. Captured Militant and Heightened Tensions An insider source disclosed that an armed Tiv militant, believed to be a mercenary, was captured within the bush during the chaos. He was found in possession of firearms and local charms. The suspect was initially held at the Obudu Police Station but was later transferred under police escort to Vandeikya in Benue State. The same source reported further escalation in Obudu town, where two Tiv men, who were reportedly going about their daily hustle, fell victim to mob action. These men were gruesomely beheaded and dismembered by angry youths. A third individual narrowly escaped death but sustained life-threatening injuries. Longstanding Conflict and Ineffective Peace Efforts This deadly clash is a continuation of a protracted land and boundary dispute between the two communities, often marred by cycles of vengeance and reprisal attacks. Security interventions were initiated with the deployment of soldiers from the Utanga community in Obanliku Local Government Area. However, military presence has not sufficiently restored peace, as palpable tension persists across both territories. Moreover, a recent peace parley held on Wednesday between the chairmen of Obudu and Vandiekya LGAs, alongside security personnel, seemingly lacked representation from any State Government official. The source lamented that without state-level intervention, these meetings may yield limited results, mostly ending in communiques without concrete action. Police Silence on the Incident Attempts to get an official comment from the Benue State Police Command spokesperson proved futile, as several calls to her mobile line were unanswered at the time of filing this report.
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In a tragic event in Kano State, four young men have lost their lives after drowning in a clogged waterway located at Zangon Kaya within the Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area. The heartbreaking incident occurred on Friday, July 18, 2025, drawing significant attention to the dangers of swimming in unsafe and obstructed waterways. It all began when two of the victims entered the stagnant water channel to swim but unfortunately became trapped. In a desperate attempt to save them, a third person jumped in but suffered the same fate. Tragically, a fourth individual also joined the rescue effort but got trapped inside the blocked waterway as well. The Kano State Fire Service reported that local residents managed to retrieve two of the bodies before the rescue team arrived at the scene. The fire service personnel subsequently recovered the other two victims. All four victims were found unresponsive and later officially declared dead. The deceased have been identified as: The bodies were subsequently handed over to the police for further examination and investigation into the incident. According to the official statement from the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, ACFO Saminu Yusif Abdullahi, the cause of the tragedy was linked to the victims swimming in a waterway obstructed by accumulated debris and water. This blockage was caused by ongoing railway construction activities in the surrounding area. Abdullahi advised residents to avoid swimming in unsafe or restricted water channels to prevent similar fatal accidents in the future. He emphasized that construction zones, especially those with water accumulations, should be approached with caution. This unfortunate event serves as a reminder for residents and local authorities to ensure that water channels are cleared, especially in construction sites, to prevent such disasters.
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Labour unions in Ogun State have reaffirmed their commitment to an ongoing indefinite strike, asserting that the industrial action will persist until their longstanding grievances are adequately addressed by the state government. Despite multiple meetings with Governor Dapo Abiodun aimed at reaching a resolution, the workers—under the umbrella of the Organized Labour—are unyielding in their demands. The strike, which began on Tuesday, was primarily initiated to challenge the Ogun State Pension Reform Law, which the workers want suspended due to alleged mismanagement and negligence. For nearly 17 years, successive Ogun State administrations have reportedly failed to remit the mandatory contributory pension funds, resulting in an outstanding pension liability estimated at ₦82 billion. The unions accuse the government of gross dereliction, leaving thousands of retirees without their entitled benefits under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). Public Services Crippled Across Ogun State According to reports from LMSINT MEDIA, the indefinite strike has led to a near-complete shutdown of public sector operations. Essential services such as education, healthcare, and judicial processes have ground to a halt. Public schools, law courts, and hospitals remain locked, while both state and local government secretariats are deserted, exacerbating the hardship faced by citizens reliant on these services. Governor Abiodun’s Response and Proposed Payment Plan In an effort to pacify the aggrieved workers, Governor Dapo Abiodun convened a meeting with the Organized Labour leaders to address the core issues, particularly the delayed implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme and other associated concerns. During the dialogue, the governor pledged that the government would start the immediate disbursement of pensions to retirees effective from July 2, 2025, under the CPS framework. Governor Abiodun outlined a 10-year phased payment plan stretching from 2025 to 2030 as the first stage. The second phase is projected to span from 2030 to 2035, ensuring that retirees’ pensions are systematically cleared over time. Specifically, the governor committed that his administration would handle payments for the remaining two years of his tenure, with his successors expected to continue the program for the subsequent eight years. Labour Unions Reject Government’s Proposal However, the labour unions have collectively rejected the state government’s offer. They insisted that the proposed plans are insufficient and do not satisfactorily address their demands. The unions made their stance clear in a formal letter jointly signed by the Ogun State Chairmen and Secretaries of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), and 13 other affiliated unions. The letter, dated Friday, July 18, 2025, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the outcomes of the previous meeting with the governor held on Thursday, July 17, 2025. The discussions during that meeting revolved around five major issues: In a marathon seven-hour emergency meeting convened by the State Organised Labour from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the union leaders meticulously reviewed the state government’s proposals on each of these pressing issues. Their conclusion was explicit: the government’s response, especially regarding the pension scheme, was inadequate and unsatisfactory. The union leaders emphasized that their initial demands remain non-negotiable, and the declared industrial dispute, as outlined in their letter dated Monday, July 14, 2025, stands unrevoked. They vowed to sustain the strike action until their conditions are fully met by the Ogun State Government.
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As Nigeria advances into the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cutting-edge technology, the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has emphasized the urgent need for the government to safeguard the online rights of its citizens. Ali Sabo, the Digital Rights Officer of CITAD, made this known during a two-day workshop aimed at enhancing Digital Rights Awareness for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and journalists. The event, organized in partnership with the Association for Progressive Communication (APC), took place recently in Kano. Sabo stressed that digital rights are now as critical as traditional human rights enjoyed offline. “Digital rights have become one of the pressing global concerns. The fundamental rights that we exercise offline, such as freedom of expression, association, and movement, should equally be upheld in the digital space,” Sabo emphasized. He highlighted that Nigeria is not just dealing with the internet anymore but is gradually embracing AI, robotics, and other sophisticated technologies. As a result, it becomes essential for authorities to extend the same level of protection to online rights as they do offline. A growing challenge, according to Sabo, is the rampant spread of misinformation, hate speech, and fake news on digital platforms, which poses significant societal threats. He also drew attention to the disturbing rise in gender-based violence occurring online. “We’ve witnessed incidents where individuals are harassed, bullied, or attacked virtually. The psychological damage from such abuse can be devastating, leading some victims to the point of suicide,” he stated. Sabo further asserted that internet access is not a luxury but a fundamental right. CITAD remains dedicated to documenting cases of digital rights violations and supporting affected individuals. “We are empowering 20 civil society advocates and journalists across diverse sectors to give a voice to the voiceless by spotlighting instances of digital rights abuse nationwide,” Sabo noted. CITAD’s efforts focus on defending essential digital freedoms, including the rights to free expression, peaceful assembly, movement, and access to information. The organization also champions equitable and inclusive internet access for every Nigerian, regardless of their location. Despite the establishment of the Cybercrime Act in 2015, initially designed to curb online criminal activities, Sabo argued that the legislation is increasingly being exploited by authorities to suppress dissent. “There is a growing misuse of the Cybercrime Act. Sometimes, the government invokes this law as a pretext to target journalists, civil society members, and opposition figures,” Sabo warned. CITAD called on the Nigerian government to refrain from leveraging security-focused laws to silence citizens and curtail free speech. Instead, the organization advocates for the creation of a digital environment that is secure, open, and equitable for all Nigerians.
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A member of the Abia State House of Assembly, representing Ukwa East State Constituency, Lewis Obianyi, has formally raised a motion addressing the pressing need for the Abia State government to regulate and restrict the establishment of petrol filling stations in close proximity to residential neighborhoods and market environments. Speaking passionately during a House plenary session, Obianyi emphasized that the fundamental duty of any responsible government is to ensure the safety and protection of lives and property of its citizens. He criticized the uncontrolled establishment of fuel stations near private homes, local markets, educational institutions, and other public spaces, highlighting the severe threat they pose to public safety, particularly in the unfortunate event of a fuel-related explosion. Obianyi drew attention to the highly combustible nature of petroleum products, noting that past incidents involving filling stations have led to tragic outcomes, including the loss of lives, destruction of properties, and in some cases, victims being left with permanent disabilities. He further alleged that numerous filling stations across different parts of Abia State are operating without adherence to environmental and fire safety protocols, a situation that poses continuous danger to residents. According to Obianyi, some existing petrol stations are currently sited in violation of the minimum regulatory distances stipulated by the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), as well as the broader environmental protection laws of Nigeria. These guidelines are designed to ensure a safe buffer between fuel stations and densely populated or sensitive areas, but many operators have blatantly disregarded these rules. “If urgent interventions are not made to curb this dangerous trend, our people will remain under the persistent threat of fire outbreaks, environmental pollution, and numerous health hazards,” Obianyi warned. He stressed the need for the state to act swiftly to safeguard the health and safety of its citizens. Consequently, Obianyi appealed to the House to press upon the State Ministry of Environment to impose a temporary halt (moratorium) on the issuance of approvals for new petrol stations in residential and market areas. He also urged for a comprehensive review of the existing fuel stations, to assess compliance with established environmental and safety standards. In his ruling, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, commended the motion and, after listening to various contributions from other lawmakers, approved all the prayers submitted by Obianyi. Additionally, he encouraged Obianyi to take further steps by drafting the motion into a formal bill, which could ensure a more legally binding framework for regulating the siting of petrol stations in the state.
