News
Striking Rubber Research Institute workers Protest Government’s Silence
By Ikhili Monday EBALU, Benin City
Workers of Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, Iyanomo, Edo State, under the aegis of Non Academic Staff Union (NASU) and Academic Staff Union of Research Institutes (ASURI) have held a peaceful demonstration to press home their reasons for embarking on strike action.
They said the demonstration which is in conjunction with other Research Institutes across Nigeria, is to strengthen their ongoing nationwide strike which began on November 14 last year.
Their demands include the payment of 12 months’ salary increase arrears, implementation of 65 years retirement age, payment of peculiar and earned allowances, poor funding of research, establishment of National Research Institutes Commission (NATIVISM), immediate release of Research Institutes’ Condition of Service and withdrawal of non-profit skipping circular.
The Unions in a joint statement signed by Comrade Elijah Obasuyi and Dr. Fredrick Akpobome, Chairmen of NASU and ASURI respectively frowned at what they called government’s unconcern and insensitive attitude to the neglect of Research Institutes in Nigeria.
“We wish to express rude shock 5hat the Federal Government can remain unconcerned and be so insensitive to a situation whereby activities in all the Research Institutes in the country have been paralysed without addressing the situation.
While accusing the government of double standards, the striking Researchers said by its attitude, the government has further confirmed that our government is paying lip service to research and technological development.
“The attitude of government is a confirmation of the fact that the government does not believe in the popular saying that a country can attain technological development in a few years’ time.
They therefore calledon the President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently take a positive look at the memo sent to him and grant the needed approvals with a view to ending the ongoing strike action Research Institutes’ sector.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the non implementation of the agreement we reached with the Federal Government in 2010 is the reason we decided to embark on this strike action,” the statement said.
They also called on the National Assembly and respected traditional rulers and other well-meaning Nigerians to intervene
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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