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Fuel Subsidy: Trade Union Threatens Government With Two-Week Protest Notice
By Daniel Edu
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, setting a two-week ultimatum for concluding negotiations. The union threatened to initiate protests if significant progress is not made by August 19.
TUC President, Festus Osifo, addressed journalists in Abuja, expressing concerns about the continuous hardships faced by its members and the general public.
Osifo highlighted the formation of technical committees on various crucial matters such as cash transfers, intervention funds, energy and power (specifically exploring compressed Natural Gas, CNG, as an alternative to Premium Motor Spirit, PMS), and the repair of refineries. Additional committees have been established for education, health, and mass transit. The TUC urges the government to expedite action and ensure that the suffering of Nigerians is alleviated.
The government had provided a timeline of eight weeks, starting from June 19, to address these issues. However, Osifo noted that progress has been slower than anticipated. He called on the government to accelerate its efforts so that all committees can submit their reports within the next two weeks. This, in turn, would enable the Presidential Steering Committee to conclude its work promptly, as the current situation cannot continue while Nigerians endure hardships and face difficulties commuting to work.
Osifo also emphasized that political officeholders should lead by example, particularly considering the harsh economic conditions in the country. He cited the case of proposed expenditures of N40 billion and N70 billion for purchasing vehicles for National Assembly members and their welfare package, questioning the appropriateness of such expenses in the current economic climate.
The TUC’s primary concern is the welfare of Nigerian workers and the well-being of the masses, including the unemployed population. The union urges the government to prioritize policies that will lead to a reduction in the cost of living, rather than actions that may exacerbate the financial burdens faced by citizens.
The TUC President asserted that the union is willing to work round the clock to ensure that the demands of Nigerian workers are met and that government officials are held accountable for their actions. Failure to address these pressing issues could lead to nationwide protests as the TUC stands firm in its commitment to stand up for the rights and well-being of the people.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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