All Posts in "Day: April 27, 2021"

SERAP Threatens Legal Action Over Suspension Of Channels TV

SERAP threatens to sue FG over suspension of Channels TV's Politics Today | 360NaijaHits
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), a non-governmental has urged the government of President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to immediately reverse the arbitrary, unconstitutional and illegal decision to suspend Channels Television, and to impose a fine of N5 million on the station purportedly for breaching the broadcast code.
The Acting Director General of the Commission, NBC, Professor Armstrong Idachaba in a letter to the Managing Director of Channels Television referred to Channels 7pm live broadcast programme of Sunday, 25th April, 2021, in which it accused the TV station of interviewing a leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) allegedly without “caution or reprimand.”
SERAP in a statement on Monday signed by its deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare said: “The suspension of Channels Television is unconstitutional, illegal, arbitrary, and without any legal basis whatsoever. The government and NBC should immediately lift the suspension and reverse the fine. We will pursue appropriate legal action if the arbitrary, unconstitutional and illegal suspension and fine are not reversed within 48 hours.”
SERAP said: “This action by the government and NBC is yet another example of Nigerian authorities’ push to silence independent media and voices. The government and NBC lift the suspension and uphold the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) and international obligations to respect and protect freedom of expression and media freedom.
The statement, read in part: “This is a new low in Nigeria’s protection of freedom of expression, and the ability of independent media to function in the country. The suspension of Channels Television is detrimental to media freedom, and access to information, and the Federal Government and NBC must immediately reverse the decision.”
“Media freedom and media plurality are a central part of the effective exercise of freedom of expression and access to information. The ability to practice journalism free from undue interference, to cover diverse views are crucial to the exercise of many other rights and freedoms.”
“The media has a vital role to play as ‘public watchdog’ in imparting information of serious public concern and should not be inhibited or intimidated from playing that role. The Federal Government and NBC should stop targeting and intimidating independent media and voices.”
“The government of President Buhari has a responsibility to protect Nigerians’ rights to freedom of expression and access to information.”
“This suspension amounts to an arbitrary and unjust application of regulations against the media. International standards allow only official restrictions on the content of what the media can broadcast or print in extremely narrow circumstances.”
“Article 20 (2) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Nigeria has ratified requires states to prohibit only advocacy that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence. Restrictions must be clearly defined, specific, necessary, and proportionate to the threat to interest protected.”
“President Muhammadu Buhari should caution the NBC to stop intimidating and harassing independent media houses and to respect the Nigerian Constitution, and the country’s international human rights obligations, including under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and peoples’ rights.”
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in Media 0
Seplat Wins Double At Nigerian Investor Value Award

Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc has won the Most Profitable Company (Oil & Gas: Exploration and Production), with Dr. Bryant ABC Orjiako, Chairman SEPLAT emerging as the Board Chairman of the Year at the Nigerian Investor Value Award (NIVA) organized by BusinessDay Media Limited in conjunction with the Nigerian Exchange Limited.
As the Most Profitable Company (Oil & Gas: Exploration and Production), Seplat was recognized for recording the highest percentage growth in profits year-on-year in its sector. The Company was said to have achieved this feat, while experiencing faster growth relative to its peers, and maintaining a relatively high operating performance.
“In 2020, like in previous years, Seplat has shown that its high profit margins are sustainable. Its strong profit position is not a flash in the pan, neither is it likely to be frittered away in coming years. This consistency has enabled the company to pay dividends regularly, service debts taken for recent strategic acquisitions, and underwrite new investments, while maintaining positive credit ratings,” the organizers explained.
Besides, the Board Chairman of the Year award recognizes a non-executive chairman or lead director who has demonstrated a passion for advancing the principles of good governance. Dr. Orjiako, according to the award organizers, have demonstrated the ability to objectively solve the most difficult boardroom challenges, with the proven experience to offer independent, sound guidance when the company faces hurdles and opportunities.
Orjiako  was selected as the winner of this award for leading the board of directors to set a strong corporate governance culture, and support for the executive management team in the enhancement of economic value with drive for Nigeria’s energy transition to gas fuelling 30 per cent of Nigeria’s electricity supply,” the organizers noted.
The Seplat Chairman was said to have distinguished himself by: superintending a seamless CEO transition with the exit of Mr. Austin Avuru, who completed a very successful tenure, and appointment of Mr. Roger Brown; overseeing the selection of a new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Mr. Emeka Onwuka, who is a seasoned executive that brings experience from the highest levels in financial services to his new position.
He was said to have supported the Board refreshment with the onboarding of Mr. Olivier de Langavant, CEO of Maurel & Prom as a Non-Executive Director, following the retirement of Mr. Michel Hochard, who also represented the interests of Maurel & Prom; as well as the Board’s commitment to payment of dividends despite COVID-19 and sharp drop in global energy demand.
In the same year, the Board of Directors of the company also appointed Ms. Arunma Oteh and Mr. Xavier Rolet as independent non-executive directors.
The award also commended  Orjiako’s presentation of one of the most lucid Chairman’s letters in recent history by educating shareholders on the company’s operating environment, choices, strategy, and opportunities in a style that is both engaging, and transparent; and leading the board-approved plan to eliminate Related-Party Transactions (RPTs), surpassing even United Kingdom regulations on RPTs.
In his address, the Chief Executive Officer, the Nigerian Exchange Limited, Mr. Temi Popoola, said the list of companies awarded showed a display of extraordinary courage and strength in a very challenged time.
In his remark, the Publisher, BusinessDay Media Limited, Mr. Frank Aigbogun, said the awards were indeed apt given the unprecedented challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic last year. According to him, the award recognized organisations that had displayed resilience and tact in the midst of adversity and uncertainty.
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in Next Level 0
Makinde Donates Car To Handicapped  LG Staff

Makinde Gifts Car To Physically-Challenged Local Government Staff | InsideOyo.com
Oyo State government has donated an automatic-geared car to a physically-challenged local government worker, who is an Acting Director, Education and Social Services to ease his movement .
The beneficiary, Mr Dauda Adeagbo is crippled and works with Ifeloju Local Council Development  Area (LCDA), Ogbooro, in Oke-Ogun area of the state.
Presenting the vehicle, which is specially made for Adeagbo’s physical challenge on behalf of the State Governor on Monday at the Car Park of the Ministry, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Bayo Lawal, said the event was in continuation of the delivery of succor to the people with special needs in the State, as promised by Governor Seyi Makinde during the electioneering period.
“Aside regular payment of salaries, prompt promotion and access to other allowances, workers should be awarded and encouraged, so that they will do their civil duties optimally and effectively, I want to assure the people of the State that the present administration under the able leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde is ready to encourage workers across the State to aid their better performance.
“Mr. Dauda Adeagbo Atanda, the acting Director of Education and Social Services has been dedicated to his work and his dedication not minding his physical challenge drew the attention of government to him which is why he is been celebrated today, we urge other Civil Servants in the State to be dedicated, dutiful and loyal, as their reward is around the corner.”
Earlier in her remark, the Acting Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGA), Ifeloju Local Council Development Area, Ogbooro, Surveyor Abosede Adebimpe said Mr. Adeagbo’s dedication to work despite his condition attracted the attention of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Bayo Lawal and his entourage of the Local Government Audit Committee headed by Sen. Mosurat Sunmonu, when they visited the council earlier in the year.
He said the situation prompted the Commissioner to direct the council administration to request for vehicle for him on the strength  on his physical challenge, stressing that the move was successful due to the Governor Makinde’s passion for the welfare of civil servants.
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in Oduduwa 0
Investment In  Bitcon Risky-EFCC

EFCC cautions Nigerians against Bitcoin, forex trading, others | The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World NewsNigeria — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has  advised Nigerians to be cautious of investing in Bitcoin, as the scheme remains a high risk and prone to fraud given its unregulated nature.
 The Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, made the position of the anti-graft agency known in a statement he released to journalists in Abuja on Monday. A In the statement,
It also raised the alarm over the rate at which Nigerians splash money into investments that promise high returns with little or no risks to the investors.
The commission noted with dismay that investment scams have continued to thrive despite the enforcement of stringent measures and public enlightenment interventions by the commission and other stakeholders.
The direct implication,the agency,said is  that hapless citizens are losing their hard-earned money to fraudsters, compounding the nation’s economic woes. a
It added that many have lost, and are still losing, money to Ponzi schemes, forex trading and most recently Bitcoin trading.
It said:”Though risk-taking is considered by some as the oxygen that drives investment decisions, the Commission wishes to warn the public against taking unmitigated risk in desperation to earn a windfall. Investment in Bitcoin, for instance, is a high risk activity as the terrain is largely unregulated, and prone to fraud.
 “The EFCC wishes to state that, while it will continue to investigate and prosecute persons complicit in fraudulent investment schemes, it is incumbent on the investing public to be circumspect in their investment decisions. Any investment that promises returns that look too good to be true should be considered a red flag. “Nigerians are by this notice, warned to be wary of fraudulent schemes and are hereby enjoined to resist the temptation of quick gain that could end in misery. “Those who ignore this advisory do so at their own risks,” EFCC warned.
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in News 0
Gunmen  Kill  Two  Varsity Students In Kaduna,Kidnap Three In Benue

Bandits have killed another two of the undergraduates of the Greenfield University,Kaduna four days after their three  colleagues were sent to early grave by their abductors.
Mr Samuel Aruwan,the Kaduna Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, who
disclosed,said the body of the deceased have been moved to a mortuary.
He said: “On a sad note, security agencies have just reported to the Kaduna State Government the recovery of two more dead bodies of Greenfield University students, killed by armed bandits today, Monday 26th April 2021.
“The retrieved corpses have been evacuated to a mortuary, and the university has been notified of the development.
“The government of Kaduna State under the leadership of Malam Nasir El-Rufai is saddened by this evil perpetrated against innocent students abducted while pursuing their education for a glorious future.
“The government sends its deep empathy to their families and the university management, and prays for the repose of their souls”
Meanwhile,police in Makurdi said  three students of the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi were kidnapped  on  last Saturday.
Police spokesperson in Benue, DSP Catherine Anene, said  that the students were kidnapped at about 10.20 p.m. while studying close to a school hall. She said full investigations of the crime had started to track the kidnappers.
“Information was received from the school authority that on April24, at about 10.20 p.m. some unknown men kidnapped three students who were studying. “We received that information and we are on it. I know that we are very close. We will continue to do our best to ensure that we get to the root of this crime. “For now, my advice to parents of the students is that they should remain calm. We are doing our best to ensure that they get their children back,’’ she said.
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in Crime/Metro 0
Boko Haram Has  Established Strong Presence  In Shiroro LG-Niger Gov 

Boko Haram has taken territory in Niger, says governor | Kessmusic
Governor Sani Bello of Niger State has said Boko Haram h? has hoisted its flag at Kawuri in Shiroro local government council of the state.
The Governor,who disclosed  when he visited the Internationally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at IBB primary school camps at Munya and Shiroro,lamented that Boko Haram wanted to use the area as their home just as they have used Sambisa forest.
 He said  despite repeated complaints to Federal Government on their predicament for military and police reinforcement,   nothing has been done to nip insurgency in the bud.
He said his administration will not be discouraged in its resolve to safeguard the lives and property of its citizens.
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in News 0
Unemployment:BoI Considers  Creation Of  Technology  Hubs

BoI to tackle youth unemployment with tech hubs
The Bank of Industry (BoI) has announced plans to establish tech hubs to address youth unemployment in the country.
The  bank said  it would be sponsoring tech hubs in recognition of the talented youths in Universities and the need to channel youths to more productive and impactful ends, rather than indulging in social vices.
Olukayode Pitan,the Managing Director, BoI, who spoke at the BoI-Unilag Incubation and Co-working hub opening and commissioning in University of Lagos,said his bank remains committed to providing funding to support credible and bankable ideas that emerge from the tech hubs to enable them to start operations and scale into viable businesses.
He added that embracing technology and infusing it into business processes will make organizations and the country more competitive while adding that the tech industry can be a major pillar of a diversified economy. “It can create exciting jobs that encourage our young people to stay in Nigeria even as they work and compete globally,” he said. “BoI is happy to support this programme because it aligns with our mission to transform Nigeria’s industrial sector by providing financial and business support services so that new businesses will emerge and existing enterprise will thrive,” he said.
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in Labour/Human Resources 0
Intimidation Of Journalists Must Stop-Rafsanjani

CISLAC decries increasing attacks on journalists in Nigeria
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, has expressed disgust over the spate of  attacks on  Nigerian journalists.
 Executive Director, CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, ,who expressed this in a statement ,said  intimidation and oppression of journalists regarded by the constitution as Fourth Estate of the Realm and watchdog is a violation of human rights and a deliberate attempt to scuttle the democratic process as far as checks and balances are concerned.
He also said that the intimidation currently faced by journalists and human rights activists by the state and other powerful individuals is unacceptable, and therefore condemned those who are doing so.
The statement reads in part, “The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) would like to use this medium to express our displeasure over the increasing intimidation of journalists and attack on human rights activists in the country.
 “The intimidation currently being faced by journalists and human rights activists by the state and other powerful individuals is unacceptable. We would like to reiterate that the human rights and the freedom of journalists and human rights activists should be respected.”
He also referred to the poor position Nigeria was placed on the recent ranking released on the World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, which indicated a decline of press freedom in the country.
According to him:“The recently released World Press Freedom Index by the Reporters Without Borders shows a sharp decline in Nigeria’s press freedom. On this index, Nigeria with an approximate score of 40 ranked 115 out of 180 countries on the 2020 index which is 5 places worse than the previous approximate score of 36 and a rank of 120. “This negative trend is in line with other recently released indexes of the quality of governance and government in Nigeria such as the African Mo Ibrahim Index to quote one case of many”
He maintained that journalists and civil society organisations have been instrumental to national development over the years based on the role they play in the process.
 “We acknowledge the fact that journalists and civil society leaders have been instrumental to the development of Nigeria. Their investigative reports have helped to unearth corruption amongst other ills in the society and have led in many cases to significant asset recoveries and prevention of grand-scale embezzlement when law enforcement has been unable or unwilling to do so”.
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in Media 0
 Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede Commences Mentoring Programme For Youths

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede launches 12 month internship and mentoring programme for Nigerian youth - Ventures Africa
Former Chairman of Access Bank PLC, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede has announced a golden opportunity for five young Nigerians to join his ecosystem of businesses and philanthropic ventures for a year as mentored interns.
He  made the announcement last week  when he met with the youth of the Ovie Brume Youth Centre to inspire them and engage with them on key learnings from his recently published memoir Leaving the Tarmac: Buying a Bank in Africa.
A strong theme of the memoir is the compelling necessity for successful people to share their experiences and learnings with others to inspire and to help fast track their success.
He said  it was his responsibility and  honour to create the mentoring internships as he also benefited from the mentoring he received early in his career.
 He further stated that he was driven to share, with young people, the knowledge and experience he gained through years of building his businesses and bringing about real, impactful socio-economic change in Nigeria … a pursuit he remains actively involved in.
The internships will be offered to five Nigerians aged between 19 and 26 who either hold a degree or who will graduate at the end of 2021. Outside of these formal criteria for eligibility, Aig-Imoukhuede says, he is looking for young people with grit, determination, a passion to succeed, and the will and drive to work hard to accomplish their ambitions.
The five interns will join Aig-Imoukhuede, working alongside him and other senior executives, and will benefit from one-to-one and group mentoring meetings throughout the 12-month internship period. The internship programme also comes with a salary.
Addressing about 120 young people at the Ovie Brume Youth Centre on Thursday, Aig-Imoukhuede said: “I strongly urge young Nigerian to apply for the internship programme. I guarantee that working alongside myself and my team of senior executives will be an edifying and extremely valuable energy- and time-investment. Expect to work hard, learn much and enjoy unrivalled professional and personal growth opportunities.”
The internships will be squarely mentoring-focused, he added, committing himself to making time to engage the interns on matters relating to excellence, growth and fostering networks with like-minded people who enable success.
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in News 0
Jiji Launches Ramadan Charity Market 

Jiji.ng, one of the online marketplace in Nigeria, has partnered with Islamic Strength to launch Ramadan Charity Market with the claim of giving buyers the opportunity to find the best prices for just about everything  needed all through the holy month.
Jiji said it will be setting aside N1 for every unique view recorded in the Ramadan store.
The company said for  every deal struck on Jiji, N10 will also be donated by Jiji to Islamic strength who will in turn be using the proceeds to feed the less fortunate all across the country.
“This presents itself as a great opportunity to do great deeds by simply doing what you love, browsing the internet and shopping. Just by  visiting and viewing the Jiji ramadan charity market, you are automatically feeding someone in need. There might never be a more straightforward way to be a hero than this!.The Jiji Ramadan Charity Market is stocked with everything needed to make your fasting period memorable and liberating.
Jiji  also said it has sellers from all across the country selling items such as fashion items like Hijabs, Kaftans, Abayas and more to food and nutrition like groceries, fruits and grains.
“As it is well known, Ramadan is almost synonymous with charity and this year, a good number of noble causes have already sprung up. Jiji however seems to be leading the charge on charity this year by providing everyone with the chance to donate to an islamic cause in the  simplest of forms,” it added
Online Editor by — April 27, 2021 in Brands&Marketing 0