Author Archives: News All Around

…Tells NASS to pass the Bill without delay

Northern Business Professionals have backed the proposed tax reform bills on grounds that the gains far outweighs the disadvantages and guarantee business development.

According to group , the tax reform bills are long awaited as they will help to stimulate the economy and establish a streamlined tax administration system; free multiple taxation and reshape Nigeria’s fiscal landscape aa well as drive economic growth and sustainability.

The President had on September 3, 2024 submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration, based on recommendations from the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, led by Taiwo Oyedele, to review existing tax laws.

In a press statement made available to Kaduna journalists today , the Northern Business Professionals said, there is no basis to entertain any fear about the bills. Adding” If anything, Nigerians will commend Tinubu for laying a solid foundation that will ensure the fiscal stability of the country.

In the statement signed by Mal. Abubakar Mustapha Kauru ,they gave assurance that ,”When Nigerians get to know the details of the documents, they will know that the president is working to bring relief to them and their businesses.”

While noting that multiplicity of taxes is one factor that has continued to impede efficiency in Nigeria’s tax system, with a negative impact, it stated that ,” The four executive bills seek to tidy up the fiscal policy and legislation environment in the country.

Adding,”These bills seek to translate the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, chaired by Taiwo Oyedele, into an implementable legislative framework for the benefit of Nigerians.

“Though the transimission of the bills to National Assembly sparked debates in the polity about the purpose of the bills with some persons expressing fears that it might encapsulate proposals calling for a raise in tax rates in a way that will further burden the citizens.”

However it explained: “There a dire need to modernize the nation’s tax framework, the reforms in order to o consolidate tax structures, unify revenue collection,promote economic development,and provide for price transparency and monitoring of publication costs and fees.

“The greatest news is that the bills seek to offer a clear and concise legal framework for all taxes and reducing disputes, thus we urge the National Assembly to pass it without delay.”

Amalgamation of Islamic groups under umbrella of Islamic Forum for Unity of the Ummah have concluded arrangements to meet on Wednesday to discuss the controversial Tax Reform Bills introduced by President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

According to the Islamic Forum, sensitive government policy, such as the proposed tax reforms needs wider consultations with stakeholders, groups and the citizens before been passed into law.

The President had, on September 3, transmitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly for consideration.

But in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Mallam Adam Awwal Muhammad and Secretary Sheikh Akanbi Rashidi Bolaji, Islamic Forum for Unity of the Ummah expressed concerns over the rejection of the bills by northern governors and National Economic Council recommendation for withdrawal.

The statement further said ,”At the Meeting convened by Sheikh Mustapha Al-Arabi convener, members of Islamic groups are expected to discuss the content of bills with regards to interest and economic implications as well as benefits to Muslim communities across the country and take a stand.

It also hinted that the decision to meet over the controversial tax reform bills stemmed from the concerns raised in some quarters over the new derivation-based model for VAT distribution and the contents of the bills, which the northern governors claimed did not align with the interests of the North and other subnational entities.

While noting that the bills have not been presented for a second reading where the principles of the bills will be debated, it stated, “We don’t want to be Hoodwinked into accepting a tax reform the will affect our people and their economic wellbeing,thus our decision to meet and get informed knowledge about the reforms before taking a stand.

The Forum further said:”We have read the recommendations of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms headed by Taiwo Oyedele, for the review of existing tax laws.

“From the document read ,we observed that the bills are the Nigeria Tax Bills are expected to provide the fiscal framework for taxation in the country, and the Tax Administration Bill, which will provide a clear and concise legal framework for all taxes in the country and reduce disputes.

” We noticed it proposes several key changes, that include a gradual increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 7.5% to 15% by 2030 and an adjustment in Company Income Tax, which would set a rate of 27.5% for large companies, reducing to 25% by 2026.Additionally, the bill proposes a 4% development levy on companies to fund the Student Education Loan Fund, along with a 5% excise duty on sectors such as lottery, gaming, and telecommunications.
” We hope that the issues of transparency, particularly through provisions requiring price transparency and monitoring of publication costs are upheld” .

Adara Likita

Renowned Islamic scholar Professor Mansur Sokoto has joined forces with other Islamic clerics to condemn Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal’s handling of the state’s security crisis. In a scathing video statement, Professor Sokoto criticized Governor Lawal’s lack of commitment to tackling the issue, accusing him of shirking responsibility and indulging in blame-shifting tactics.

Professor Sokoto emphasized that Governor Lawal must take decisive action to protect the lives and property of his constituents, as the buck stops with him. He pointed out that the governor has failed to demonstrate necessary leadership and commitment to addressing the crisis, despite being aware of the state’s security challenges before assuming office.

The Professor’s criticism extends to Governor Lawal’s disregard for the pleas and advice of religious leaders. He urged the governor to prioritize the well-being of the people he has been elected to serve.

Interestingly, Governor Lawal has taken some steps to address the security concerns, including inaugurating a 21-member Board of Trustees of the Zamfara State Security Trust Fund ¹. He has also attended a roundtable discussion on insecurity in the North, emphasizing the need for synergy and a multi-dimensional regional approach ². Additionally, he has decorated 20 Community Protection Guards with gallantry medals for their exceptional performance in the fight against banditry ³.

However, Professor Sokoto’s statement underscores the urgency of the situation and the moral imperative to address the security crisis head-on. The people of Zamfara are desperate for concrete action, not empty promises or finger-pointing.

Key Concerns:

• Lack of Commitment: Governor Lawal’s lack of commitment to tackling the security crisis.
• Blame-Shifting: Governor Lawal’s persistent efforts to shift responsibility onto others.
• Disregard for Religious Leaders: Governor Lawal’s apparent disregard for the pleas and advice of religious leaders.

Calls to Action:

• Decisive Leadership: Governor Lawal must take decisive action to protect the lives and property of his constituents.
• Comprehensive Strategy: The need for a comprehensive strategy to address the multifaceted challenges facing the state.
• Prioritize Welfare: Governor Lawal must prioritize the well-being of the people he has been elected to serve.

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Osifo O. Jerome, Idoma, Nigeria.

Coalition of Civil Society Organisations under aegis Good Governance Initiative For Development (GGID) have dismissed the recent protest against Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as a sponsored job to blackmail and descredit all efforts made to return the oil sector on right path of growth and development.

According bro the Coalition, the latest clamours for removal of Kyari,who has helped President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda score huge wins in the petroleum sector is unnecessary.

Recalled that Some groups had mobilized other civil society groups to shut down the National Assembly complex on Tuesday with the Kyari-Must-Go protest.

The anti-Kyari protesters are demanding the immediate resignation of the NNPCL boss by the Presiden Bola AhmedTinubu.

But in a statement by the Coordinator of the Good Governance Initiative For Development, Comrade Yunusa Kabir Mohammed, the group said the call for Kyari’s resignation is nothing short of a blackmail of the NNPC boss who has engineered efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“This is undoubtedly sponsored by mischief makers who were bent on discrediting President Tinubu’s petroleum reforms agenda for the benefit of the masses.” It added .

While describing the protest as a clear case of internal sabotage orchestrated by individuals that are threatened by Kyari’s success, it dismissed the accusations raised as baseless and motivated by corrupt interests seeking to undermine the significant progress made in the oil and gas sector.
The statement reads : “Kyari’s leadership has driven crucial reforms, such as the transition of NNPC into a limited liability company, enhancing its financial viability and operational efficiency. Noting his resolve to tackle oil theft through strategic partnerships with security agencies has contributed significantly to enhancing Nigeria’s revenue base.

“Why do we allow anyone sabotage kyari’s genuine commitment to creating sustainable downstream sector, despite the challenges of fixing the refineries and efforts that have made products available to Nigerians.

“We express disappointment in those who have sought to discredit management of NNPCL , suggesting that the calls for Kyari’s removal are orchestrated by individuals benefiting from the previous corrupt practices in the sector.

“We therefore urge President Bola Tinubu to reject their demands because the reforms Kyari has implemented are essential for the continued development of the sector and the nation’s economic stability.

“It is obvious that the motivations behind this protest seem deeply entrenched in personal interest rather than collective welfare. The protests are based on misleading narratives and serve to undermine the significant reforms Kyari has implemented.”

“We stand in firm support of Mele Kyari and appeal to the President not to yield to these unfounded demands,as the nation cannot afford to reverse the gains made in the oil sector.”

Rose Ameh

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CCSOs) of Nigeria has written to Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, regarding the recent calls by the APC Solidarity Forum for the resignation of Alhaji Mele Kyari, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The coalition considers these calls unjustified and potentially harmful to Nigeria’s economy and democracy.

Under Alhaji Kyari’s leadership, NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones, including facilitating independent power projects, road maintenance, and significant blockage of revenue leakages, resulting in increased revenue for Nigeria ¹. These accomplishments demonstrate his exceptional leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

Ambassador Abdul DanBature, Speaker of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), signed the letter on behalf of the coalition, urging Akpabio to take immediate action. DanBature stressed that the APC Solidarity Forum’s actions appear driven by political motivations rather than genuine concerns for the nation’s well-being.

The coalition demanded that Akpabio:

– *Condemn the APC Solidarity Forum’s unwarranted attacks* on Alh. Kyari and NNPC
– *Investigate the motivations behind these calls* for resignation
– *Prevent further interference* in NNPC’s operations

They also requested Akpabio ensure the APC Solidarity Forum is held accountable for their actions and that Nigeria’s interests are protected ¹.

*Urges him to reverse “bad” economic policies

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Tuesday, described President Tinubu’s directive on the release of minors arrested and detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests as a step in the right direction.

Frank who made this assertion in a statement in Abuja, however, urged the President to equally order the release of all detainees being held for exercising their constitutional right to protest against bad policies of government because the “President is known to have embarked and led series of protests during the pro-democracy struggle and in 2012 when the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan removed fuel subsidy.”

He urged the President to equally reverse some of his bad economic policies like the floating of the naira and outright removal of fuel subsidy which have brought untold hardship in the country and worsened the condition of living of majority of Nigerians.

He expressed commitment to commend the President when he takes a positive step in governance and criticize him when his action is against the wellbeing of the generality of Nigerians.

He called on the Federal Government to compensate the minors, after release, for violating their fundamental human rights and cruelty meted on them by the police who detained them for over three months under dehumanizing conditions without trial.

Frank said: “We warmly welcome President Bola Tinubu’s decision to order the immediate release of minors arrested during the #EndBadGovernance protests from detention.

“The President’s action acknowledges the concerns of Nigerians and the international community regarding the treatment of protesters, especially minors.

“However, we also call for accountability and reform within the intelligence community.

“The fact that minors were detained for over 90 days without prompt attention from the President’s office raises concerns about the effectiveness of our intelligence agencies.

“We urge the President to investigate this lapse and consider replacing intelligence chiefs who failed to bring this matter to his attention.”

He demanded that the probe ordered by the President should start from the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Commissioners of Police in-charge of Kano and Kaduna states who arrested the minors.

“This probe must not be swept under the rug, we shall monitor to ensure that the findings are made public and appropriate sanctions meted out to officers found to be complicit,” he said.

Besides, to ensure adequate justice for the victimised and oppressed minors, he urged the Federal Government to provide financial assistance to their families, offer the minors scholarships and enroll them in reputable boarding schools to help them overcome their traumatic experiences.

“The minors should also be availed the services of professional counsellors to address any emotional or psychological distress.

“By taking these steps, we can begin to heal the wounds of the past and build a more just and compassionate society for all Nigerians,” he said.

The National Youth Alliance (NYA) has said that it is deeply disturbed by the recent acts of persecution and undue hardship imposed on young Nigerians who bravely exercised their constitutional right to protest under the #EndBadGovernance movement.

In a statement, NYA President, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas said that among the 76 individuals detained following the August 2024 protest, several were minors, some of whom have been denied basic human dignity and justice by both the Nigerian judicial system and the government.

According to the statement signed by his SA Media and Publicity, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, made available to newsmen in Kaduna, NYA said, “In a decision that has drawn widespread condemnation, presiding Judge Justice Obiora Egwuatu set bail at an exorbitant N10 million per defendant.

“This excessive amount is accompanied by rigorous conditions, including the requirement for each detainee to present two surety—one being a civil servant of at least grade level 15 with a verifiable address within the court’s jurisdiction, and the other a parent of the accused.

“These conditions are, frankly, unrealistic and discriminatory, especially for ordinary citizens exercising their right to peacefully demand change.

“This onerous bail not only seeks to financially cripple the families of these young Nigerians but serves as a clear attempt to discourage civic participation by instilling fear among those who dare to voice legitimate grievances.

In response to recent health concerns, the government momentarily withdrew charges against five of the detained minors. This temporary reprieve came after a tragic scene unfolded in court, where several youths fainted due to severe health issues arising from weeks of detention. Witnesses in the courtroom described a distressing sight, with young detainees fainting and lawyers rushing to their aid. Reports indicate that these minors had not eaten for days and showed visible signs of malnourishment and ill-treatment.

This deplorable treatment of minors—some of Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens—is unconscionable and highlights a troubling disregard for human rights and the rule of law. Rather than showing compassion and respect for the rights of the young, the Nigerian judicial system and government have chosen to prioritize punitive measures over the well-being of their citizens. The fainting of minors in court should be a wake-up call to authorities that their policies are not just unjust, but inhumane.

The National Youth Alliance calls for immediate reforms to ensure the protection of young Nigerians’ rights and demands the unconditional release of all detained protesters, particularly minors. We urge the government to address the root causes of civil discontent rather than suppressing the voices of those who seek a better future. Furthermore, we call for an investigation into the treatment of these detainees, ensuring that those responsible for the inhumane conditions faced by these young Nigerians are held accountable.

Our nation’s youth deserve a government that listens, respects, and responds to their concerns—not one that attempts to silence them through intimidation and financial hardship. We stand firmly in solidarity with the detained protesters and their families, and we will continue to advocate for justice, accountability, and meaningful change.

The National Youth Alliance reiterates that civic engagement is a right, not a crime. The government’s actions in this case threaten to undermine the democratic fabric of Nigeria, sending a dangerous message that voices for change will be met with harsh retribution. We call on all Nigerians to stand with us in demanding justice and the protection of our rights.

Senator Shehu Sani has described as most unfortunate and shameful for country’s democracy, the arrangement and participation of minors in protest.

The former lawmaker,who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial zone in the 8th Senate however, urged the federal government to withdraw the charges against them and return them to their states .

Senator Shehu Sani who is also a human rights activist stated this via his X handle today .

His words : “The arrangement of those minors for their participation in protest is most unfortunate and shameful for our country’s democracy.The FG should withdraw the charges against them and return them back to their states.”

By Abubakar Sulaiman

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and support groups, has criticized Aliko Dangote, owner of Dangote Refinery, over non-disclosure of premium motor spirit (PMS) prices.

In contrast, AYAGL commended Mele Kolo Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), for efforts to make PMS available despite challenges.

Ambassador Abdul DanBature, AYAGL Speaker, praised Kyari’s holistic approach to addressing the fuel shortage but urged Dangote to reveal the cost of a liter of petrol from his refinery. DanBature questioned Dangote’s sincerity, citing waivers granted to his refinery and the need for transparency.

The group warned that if Dangote fails to disclose the information, they will seek means to compel him to do so. AYAGL emphasized its commitment to good governance and transparency, calling on the Federal government and organizations to alleviate citizens’ suffering.

“We are committed to good governance and will support any organization providing good governance and transparency. Enough of the blame game, it’s time to know who is not being truthful to Nigerians,” the group stated.

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations, (CSOs) and other support groups has taken a swipe on Aliko Dangote, owner of Dangote refinery, over non-disclosure of premium motor spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, accusing him of playing “hanky panky.”

Meanwhile, the group has commended the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kolo Kyari, over concerted efforts in making the product available against all odds.

Speaker of the AYAGL, Ambassador Abdul DanBature, said, painful as the present increase in the price of petrol might be, a critical assessment of the NNPCL under the leadership of Kyari needed to be commended for his efforts towards addressing the situation holistically and ensuring the availability of the product with market forces determining its price.

Danbature, however, stressed that Dangote should come out and tell the public how much is a liter of petrol from his refinery if truly he meant well for this country, stressing that his non-disclosure shows lack of sincerity.

The group averred that with waivers granted to the Dangote refinery, who gets the crude oil from Nigeria, there should be no reason why petrol should sell the much it is selling now except if he (Dangote) has what he is hiding from Nigerians.

The group said if this gentle call for Dangote to come out and explain to Nigerians the cost of a liter of petrol from his refinery is not yielded to, the youths will have no option but to seek means of compelling him to do so.

“For us, we are committed to good governance and will support any organization, be it government or individual, that is providing good governance and transparent in their dealings.

“We are not unaware of the hardship the citizens of this country are going through presently and we call on the Federal government and organizations to do everything possible to alleviate the suffering of the masses.

“Enough of the blame game, it’s time to know who is not being truthful to Nigerians,” the group said.

A recent publication by Metro Daily online has sparked outrage with its spurious allegations against Senator Danjuma Laah, the immediate past Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District at the 8th Assembly. The article, titled “Former Sen. Laah in Murky Waters over N390M Kaduna South Senatorial District ZIP, Capital Project Funds,” is a blatant attempt to tarnish Senator Laah’s reputation and undermine his years of dedicated service to the people of Kaduna South.

The Allegations: A Web of Deceit

The article claims that Senator Laah is accused of impropriety and unwarranted collection of N390 million meant for Zonal Intervention Projects and Capital Projects in his zone. It further alleges that he made these collections via Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) 14 months after losing his seat. These baseless accusations have left many wondering about the motivations behind such a malicious attack on Senator Laah’s character.

The Truth: A Record of Transparency and Accountability

Senator Danjuma Laah has never carried out any contract or been directly or indirectly linked to any companies that executed constituency and capital projects during his tenure. His role, as Senator, was to ensure projects were executed in good quality, based on contract specifications. Throughout his time in office, Senator Laah maintained transparency and accountability, ensuring that funds allocated for projects benefited his constituents.

Exposing the Fabrications: A Pattern of Dishonesty

A closer examination of the article reveals a pattern of dishonesty and fabrication. For instance:

1. Non-existent Project Location: There is no location as “Zangon Kataf – Kwali road” in Kaduna South Senatorial Zone, contrary to the article’s claims.
2. Fabricated Project: The National Livestock Training Center, Kachia project was never included in Senator Laah’s constituency projects.
3. Misrepresentation of Facts: The Rehabilitation/Reconstruction of Kwoi – Kafanchan Road was executed by MOFTREH CONSTRUCTION Nigeria Ltd, with no links to Senator Laah. The project was a maintenance project, not reconstruction, and its cost was N200 million, not N2.5 billion.

ICPC, Not EFCC: A Display of Ignorance

The article’s call for the EFCC to investigate Senator Laah demonstrates a lack of understanding of the agencies’ roles. The ICPC has a dedicated desk for investigating National Assembly members’ constituency and capital projects, not the EFCC.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The article’s writer and publisher aim to harm Senator Laah’s integrity without consequences. Senator Danjuma Laah is a grassroots philanthropist committed to his people’s progress and well-being. He will take necessary legal actions to address these malicious allegations.

As the people of Kaduna South and beyond look up to Senator Laah for leadership, it is essential to recognize the sinister intentions behind these baseless accusations. The public deserves truth and accuracy, not fabricated stories designed to destroy reputations.

Signed:
Alh. Yahaya Suleiman
Former Aide, Sen. Danjuma on Laah Project Monitoring
24/10/2024