These are the top stories making headlines across Nigeria today
1. Federal Government Rejects Human Rights Abuse Claims Regarding NLC President’s Arrest:
The Federal Government has firmly dismissed allegations that the arrest and interrogation of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, constitutes a human rights abuse. These allegations, raised by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in the UK, were labelled as unfounded. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga emphasized that the accusations were based on a misunderstanding of the situation, urging everyone to allow security agencies to carry out their duties without interference.
2. Nigerian Military Reaffirms Commitment to Eliminating Terrorists and Bandits:
The military, on Tuesday, reaffirmed its unwavering resolve to rid Nigeria of terrorists and bandits disrupting social and economic activities across the country. Service chiefs declared that the Armed Forces are making significant headway in the fight against banditry and terrorism. They called on Nigerians to cooperate with security agencies, promising continued efforts to ensure the safety of lives and property nationwide.
3. APC Admits Tinubu’s Policies Have Exacerbated Economic Hardship:
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has acknowledged that the economic policies implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have worsened the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians. APC National Publicity Secretary, Barrister Felix Morka, made this admission in response to criticism from former APC national vice chairman (North West), Salihu Mohammed Lukman, who had questioned the impact of the administration’s policies. Morka stressed, however, that the government is committed to long-term reforms aimed at economic recovery.
4. Flooding Crisis in Maiduguri Worsens as Thousands Displaced:
Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, is grappling with severe flooding after the collapse of the Alau Dam on Tuesday. Director-General of the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Barkindo Mohammed, described the situation as “terrible,” with floodwaters submerging several parts of the town. Thousands of residents have been displaced and are now seeking safer grounds as emergency relief efforts are underway to address the disaster.
5. Tinubu Defends Removal of Fuel Subsidy, Says It Will Fund Critical Investments:
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu defended his administration’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), asserting that the move will release essential funds for critical national investments. He highlighted that the bold economic reforms, which have led to short-term challenges, are essential to restore confidence in Nigeria’s economy and lay the foundation for sustainable development.
6. No Agreement Reached Yet Between NNPC and Dangote Refinery for Petrol Supply:
Despite plans for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to begin lifting petrol from the Dangote Refinery by September 15, 2024, no commercial agreement has been finalized. Investigations reveal that both parties have yet to reach a deal on the quantity and pricing of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to be supplied. Sources within NNPCL and Dangote confirmed ongoing negotiations to resolve the issue.
7. NAFDAC Orders Recall of Dove Beauty Soap Due to Health Risks:
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a directive for the immediate recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g) with batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany. NAFDAC discovered the presence of Butylphenyl Methylpropional, also known as Lilial, in the product—a chemical impurity linked to severe health risks. The recall is in accordance with the Cosmetic Products Regulation, and the agency is urging consumers to discontinue use of the affected product.
8. American Businessman Sentenced to 74 Years in Lagos for $1.2M Fraud:
A Lagos State Special Offences Court has sentenced American businessman, Marco Antonio Ramirez, to 74 years imprisonment for defrauding victims of over $1.2 million through an EB-5 visa scam. In addition to the $1.2 million, Ramirez was also convicted for defrauding another $368,698.24. Justice Mojisola Dada, who handed down the sentence, found him guilty on multiple counts of fraud in two separate consolidated cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
9. Police Hunt for Killers After Four Men Murdered in Anambra Community:
The Anambra State Police Command is actively investigating the killings of four men in the Agu-Isioye community, located between Enugwu-Ukwu and Nawfia in Njikoka Local Government Area. The attack, which occurred on Monday, left several others injured as unknown assailants stormed the community. The police are currently pursuing leads to apprehend those responsible for the brutal attack.
10. Naira Hits Record Low Against the US Dollar, Closes at N1637.59:
The Nigerian naira continues to lose ground against the US dollar, with the exchange rate closing at N1637.59 on Tuesday. This marks a N14.63 decline from the previous day’s rate of N1622.96. The steady depreciation of the naira has been attributed to ongoing challenges in the country’s foreign exchange market. According to data from the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange, the naira has faced significant pressure, leading to a sharp drop in value.
These are the top stories making headlines across Nigeria today.
