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Breaking: FG elevates 8 FRSC Assistant Corps Marshals, Retires 3

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume has approved the appointment of 8 Assistant Corps Marshals (ACM), to the rank of Deputy Corps Marshal (DCM).

In the same vein, three of the DCMs are to proceed on immediate retirement, the remaining 5 are to fill up existing vacancies in the South South, South East, South West, North Central, and North West geopolitical zones.

The Officers to fill up existing vacancies are; Deputy Corps Marshal Clement Oladele fdc, to represent North Central geopolitical zone, DCM Chidiebere Nkwonta, fwc, represents the South East geopolitical zone while DCM Sunday Iyamah, fwc is appointed to fill up the vacancy in the South South geopolitical zone.

Others are DCM MR Yerima, fdc to represent the North West geopolitical zone and DCM Abiodun Akinlade to now represent the South West geopolitical zone when Dcm Bisi kazeem bows out in August.

The promoted senior officers to proceed on immediate retirement are; Deputy Corps Marshal Kingsley Agomoh, mni, Deputy Corps Marshal Jonas Agwu mni, as well as Deputy Corps Marshal Zubairu Mato.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation expressed delight over the level of transparency and objectivity that heralded the whole process.

He urged the appointed officers to show more commitment and rededicate themselves to achieving the corporate vision of the Corps which is to eradicate road traffic crashes and create a safer motoring environment in the country.

The SGF stated that the appointment is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s drive towards rewarding excellence, diligence and hard work which is in line with the administrative philosophy of the present leadership of the Hope Agenda regime.

The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed equally congratulated the newly elevated Officers for their excellent performances during the exercise.

He noted that every promotion comes with greater responsibilities. He charged them to put in their best in the course of their duties as the new rank calls for more focus, more dedication, commitment and passion.

He admonished those who were not fortunate this appointment year to keep faith alive and be loyal to the system.

Speaking further, the Corps Marshal promised to improve the general welfare of the personnel of the Corps.

“As such, he beckoned on all personnel to be of good cheer and put in great efforts towards the realisation of the corporate mandate of the Corps, a statement signed by Olusegun Ogungbemide, Corps Commander
Ag. Corps Public Education Officer, said.

Abel Damina – Doubtful Call, Dubious Beginning, Dangerous Doctrines Exposed! By Geoffrey T. Efe

Pastor Abel Damina of Power Chapel International has recently been at the center of a storm of controversy. Within the Christian community, his teachings have sparked significant perplexity, with many labeling his doctrines as outright heresies. These concerns have raised serious questions about his doctrinal stance and the spiritual root of his ministry.

One of the most contentious aspects of Damina’s teachings is his assertion that sin does not condemn anyone to hell. Additionally, he has claimed that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was never a virgin. These and other provocative teachings have led many to question the origin of his inspiration.

To gain deeper insight into the roots of Damina’s ministry and the controversy surrounding it, we spoke with Bro Soviet, a long-time acquaintance who knew Damina before his ministry began.

In a revealing interview, Bro Soviet shared his thoughts on the current controversies and offered a candid perspective on Damina’s spiritual journey.

“When it comes to Abel Damina, I believe he has run out of ideas,” Bro Soviet stated.

“The spirit behind his teachings is definitely not of God because there is meant to be harmony in the body of Christ. When someone finds fault with everyone else and claims to be the only one who is right, it means he is the one who is actually wrong. Abel is someone I have known even before he started his ministry.”

Bro Soviet’s familiarity with Damina dates back to the early days of his ministry. Reflecting on Damina’s early years, Bro Soviet expressed his skepticism about Damina’s calling and discipline.

“Before he started his ministry, I observed an obvious lack of clarity of call and discipline in his lifestyle. His messages don’t bear the fruit of the Spirit of God. I have not seen that clear call. He probably went into ministry because his father was a pastor in the Assemblies of God, and he grew up on church premises and got few bits of information and began to mix them up.

“To fully understand the trajectory of Abel Damina’s ministry, it’s essential to trace his roots back to his arrival in Uyo in 1990.

“When Damina first came to Uyo, I was a member of a church called Life Tabernacle. A branch of Idem Ikon’s Church in Calabar. In Calabar it is called Revival Valley.

“But when they created Akwa Ibom State, the members of the church that came to Akwa Ibom as Akwa Ibomites opened a church in Uyo called Life Tabernacle located along Oron Road in one secondary school.

“Now while the church was growing up, that was when Abel Damina came in. He introduced himself to the man of God called Atauyo Ibanga. When he introduced himself, the pastor only gave him the pulpit to greet the church and introduce himself for 5 or 15 minutes thereabouts. As soon as he dropped the microphone, he left with the two people that he came with.

“After the service, the pastor said, ‘This young man is up to something.” He said that he would never give him the pulpit again. He called Damina, “This Hausa boy,” because in Akwa Ibom then, they call everybody from the north, Hausa.

“So when I learnt that he is from the north and I am also from the north, I went after him, and tried to encourage him. In that process, we went to Dr Uma Ukpai, and he introduced himself and told Uma Ukpai what he came from the north to do and all that. Dr Uma Ukpai used a few words, he said, “Young man, Go back to the north, your assingment is not welcomed here.” That was all.

It was then. I said, “Ah! A father of faith that is supposed to receive a young, vibrant minister…”
That was when I started developing cold feet because it was rejection everywhere. Then, I was thinking that it was persecution but I found out that utterances from his mouth and what he was doing were at variance. That was when I began to develop cold feet.

“Honestly, let me tell you. From the beginning, I saw insincerity, I saw moral bankruptcy, I saw all these things from the beginning. And like I said, that was why I refused to be part of his work.

“Now he came in and introduced himself that he never came to establish any church, rather, he came for a ministers association called ICMA, meaning International Charismatic Ministers Association. Not too long after that, he started a fellowship, calling it FFF. Friday Fire Fellowship. Not too long Power Chapel International started. That was when it was confirmed that he was up to something else other than what he told people when he came.

“As I’m talking today, everything metamorphosed from ICMA to FFF, then to Power Chapel International, and now it is Power City.

“Honestly, there had never been any honesty from the beginning. There had never been a clean, clear vision, from the beginning.

“The foundation was faulty and it’s the same thing that is happening up to date.”

Bro Soviet’s concerns about Damina’s doctrinal stance are not unfounded. “If I met him today, I would tell him to apologize to the body of Christ. His heretical ideas and teachings are leading some gullible young generation of Christians astray. But all I know is, just like music, it will all fizzle away,” Bro Soviet said.

Bro Soviet believes that those who are genuinely seeking Christ will eventually find their way back, despite the confusion caused by Damina’s teachings.

Reflecting on the financial aspect of Damina’s ministry, Bro Soviet shared his experiences from the past. “As a preacher, if your message centers on how to collect money from people every time, then something is wrong. Way back, I used to give him money. Though I was never comfortable because of his character, I knew he was not the one to reward me but God. He had no capacity to manage the money. This was someone who was preaching that all tithes belonged to him and he could do whatever he wanted with it.”

Despite Damina’s current stance against giving, Bro Soviet remains hypocritical. “Like I told you, when you run out of lies, you need to cook up more lies to cover up the previous lies you have told. At the beginning, his foundation was faulty. When the first phase expired, he needed more lies to sustain his life. I don’t know of any academic certificate that he has. He is not a graduate because he didn’t go to any university to my knowledge.”

Bro Soviet’s critique extends beyond Damina’s teachings to his personal life and foundation. “There are men of God in Nigeria who have integrity, but right from the beginning, he exhibited an abysmal level of moral and character bankruptcy in all ramifications. That is why he has the audacity to say once born again, always born again.”

Bro Soviet concluded with a call for accountability and repentance. “As a servant of the kingdom, he should humble himself and apologize to the world for misleading people. Some of us have invested so much into his life and ministry. He has benefited a lot. I housed him and his pastors for one year and six months in Uyo, so I know what I am saying.
“Joshua Talena, if he is sincere, knows what I’m talking about. His own younger brother, Gideon was in the picture. At the beginning as I have been saying, there were a number of people who rushed in thinking they had found a ministry with which they could grow, but not too long after, they were all discouraged and fizzled away. Persons like Joe Odobre, Joe Udomio, Bro Tony that he turned into his driver, Rev. Benny Momoh and Macdonald Edward with his wife and a daughter then; all of them lived in my house at No. 53 Enwe street by Oron Road. Bro Uduak Ekong, Sister Aniebo Ndada Inyang, Bro Charles Uko. There were many more brethren whose names I cannot remember anymore because this was some 34 years ago.

Bro Soviet hasn’t been able to reach Damina to discuss these issues directly. “I will tell him to his face that he should apologize to those men of God he has insulted. He should apologize for misleading people. From the Bible, you can pick one or two scriptures and build any negative message. But the foundation is what is important. A message built on falsehood will eventually crumble. We must remember it is not just about those he has insulted; it’s about the body of Christ. If a man of God twists scripture for personal gain, it’s a problem.”

In Bro Soviet’s view, Damina’s recent messages are fueled by jealousy. “His new messages are products of jealousy. He feels left behind and there is nothing he can do to measure up to the standard of those he is attacking. The men of God he’s talking about, one branch of their church is more than everything he has worked for in his entire life. I urge those fathers of faith he has defamed to forgive him and pray for his repentance.”

Delivery of 17 locomotive containers to ease transportation of food supply, others – TDF

The delivery of 17 locomotive driven containers to the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) facilitated by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration will considerably reverse the trend of food inflation in the country because of its potential to reduce the cost of movement of food items from producers to consumers across the country.

The Democratic Front in a statement signed by its Chairman Mallam Danjuma Muhammad and Secretary, Chief Wale Adedayo observed that the delivery of the containers was not only another huge response to ease food scarcity but also targeted to boost freight operations of the NRC.

The group noted that the provision of the containers that will traverse Lagos to Kano is also in conformity with the President’s campaign manifesto.

The group noted: “We applaud President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the impressive show of efforts in fulfilling his promise by stamping his authority on the development of critical infrastructures that will urgently ease pressures on economy and the people of the country.

Listing some of the many advantages, the TDF said that the recent delivery of 17 locomotive wagons from Kano is a confirmation of a successful launch of freight operations by rail and it confirms the dogged mindset and determination of the President to make the Nigerian economy globally attractive and competitive.

It also said that the provision of these items has the potential and capacity to generate a modern and efficient railway system which will contribute meaningfully to the concerted drive towards the realization of $1trn economy as being envisaged.

“We are convinced that the movement of cargos and other heavy-duty equipment across the country by rail will reduce auto crashes and also ease the current pressure on the roads. The menace of haulage lorries will reduce, thereby making the roads safer and more durable, the group insisted.

The statement continued: “Indeed, we confidently envisage that the cargo haulage system will also considerably reverse the trend of food inflation in the country because of the potential of a cheaper movement of food items from the agricultural belt of the North to the South and vice versa.

TDF then posited that the investment in railway services is just one of the efforts by the Tinubu administration to boost the economy since assuming office.

TDF acknowledges that this significant development in the railway transportation sector is just one out of a plethora of achievements by the Tinubu administration since the commencement of its economic reforms.

But the group regreted the actions of “unpatriotic opposition working in cahoot with a group of misled alarmists within the country who rather relish in advancing their selfish political interests by inciting Nigerians against the very hard working administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the detriment of our collective national patrimony.

“TDF believes that nothing insults the sensibility of Nigerians, more than a political party that inherited a promising and developing economy from the military in May 1999, but squandered the wealth and potentials of the nation within a period of 16 years, leaving the nation in penury and indebtedness. Only for the party to pretend and project itself as the messiah of the people.

“If the PDP had judiciously invested the billions of dollars made from crude oil in 16 years, to develop a modern, national railway transportation system, rehabilitate the state owned refineries for private sector management, construct additional power generation sources like the recently commissioned 800 MW Zungeru Power Station, and mechanize the processes and production of agricultural outputs, the impact of fuel subsidy removal would not have been this harsh on Nigerians.

“The railway transportation sector is currently receiving priority attention from the President, and we expect that the giant strides in the development of railways in Nigeria will continue,”it said.

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Student Loan: Group commends Tinubu initiative, says it will foster new generation of skilled Nigerians

…Tinubu’s initiative will foster a new generation of well-educated, skilled Nigerians-Group

The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has said that the newly launched Student Loan Scheme will contribute in no small measure to national development by building a generation of well-educated citizens with high level manpower tranning

The scheme, the TSF said, in a statement signed by its chairman, Ahmad Sajoh and Secretary Afolabi Josiah, will enable individuals to be self-reliant, attain their maximum educational ambition, and be useful members of the society.

“This scheme is bound to ensure that financial constraints do not deny indigent students of quality education while knowledge acquired will be useful to the country.

The group futher said: “This initiative, overseen by the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), marks a significant milestone in our nation’s educational history, with 103,000 successful applications out of 164,000 registered between May 25 and July 17, 2024.

“For us, the scheme underscores President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to education as a powerful tool to combat poverty and insecurity in Nigeria.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Nigerian government has, historically, catered to students through bursaries and scholarships. While those methods have been beneficial, the current initiative promises a more structured and expansive approach, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder any Nigerian from accessing quality education.

“Comparatively, the student loan systems in the UK and USA have long supported students in achieving their educational goals, leading to well-established and effective frameworks. So, the implementation of a similar programme in Nigeria signals a commitment to adopting best practices that have proven successful globally.

“This program is designed to not only support current students but to be a sustainable model that will serve future generations.

“President Tinubu’s initiative ensures that tuition fees are paid directly to institutions, while students receive stipends for their upkeep, thus covering all critical aspects of their educational pursuit. This initiative is poised to create a lasting impact on the educational landscape of Nigeria, fostering a generation of well-educated and skilled individuals equipped to contribute significantly to national development.”

The group also urged beneficiaries to ensure they honour their commitment in order to ensure that the programme is sustained.

“As we celebrate this landmark achievement, we urge the beneficiaries to approach this opportunity with utmost seriousness and integrity. The successful implementation and sustainability of this program rest on the responsible utilization and timely repayment of these loans.

“By honouring their commitments, beneficiaries will not only secure their own futures but also pave the way for countless other students to benefit from this scheme in the years to come.

“We at the TSF believe that this programme will be entrenched and will grow to support many generations of Nigerian students. We commend President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to making education accessible to all,” added.

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Family announces date for Late Wilson Santa Ebireri’s burial

A highly respected Niger Delta family on Saturday talked animatedly about ebullient business entrepreneur, Mr Wilson Ebireri.

The family praised Wilson Ebireri for his moral convictions and handling of issues.

Death seized Wilson Ebireri so firmly in the early hours of Friday, July 12, 2024 in Sapele, five months before his 71st birthday.

Fondly called “Santa” by friends and associates, Wilson Ebireri, according to the family, was very energetic, positive and happy.

“With Wilson Ebireri, it is either black or white. No task was too insignificant to him to perform in aid of the family. No journey too perilous for him to undertake” the family said.

A statement on Sunday said members of the family met to pray for the repose of the soul of Wilson Ebireri, a caring father, energetic and colourful businessman.

“The family met and picked Friday, September 19 and 20 for the funeral rites of the father of seven children and grandchildren”

The statement signed by an elder in the family, Henry Ovie Ebireri, said a service of songs would hold on Thursday, September 19 at Ikomi Road by 5pm.

“The body of Wilson Ebireri will depart Obule Hospital on September 20 for his Ikomi Road residence”

The statement also said internment for the head of the Ebireri family would take place on September 20 by 12 noon at Marford Close.

“Reception will be at Okotie-Eboh Grammar School, Sapele” the statement added.

CISLAC Blasts Senate Leadership for Silencing Senators and Undermining Democracy

Bilkisu Adejoh

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has issued a scathing critique of the Senate’s recent actions, accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of stifling dissent and undermining democratic principles.

The removal of Senator Ali Ndume as Chief Whip has sparked accusations of autocracy within the Senate.

In a statement signed by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organization condemned Ndume’s ousting, suggesting it reflects a troubling trend of silencing senators who voice the concerns of the Nigerian people.

“The Senate’s actions undermine the constitutional role of its members as representatives of the people at the highest levels of government,” CISLAC asserted.

Highlighting Ndume’s significant contributions to the Senate and governance, CISLAC argued that his removal without a violation of Senate rules or the constitution demonstrates sycophancy and damages the Senate’s credibility as an independent body.

CISLAC raised concerns about the Senate leadership’s alignment with executive policies, portraying the Senate as a mere extension of the executive branch.

CISLAC criticized the character and integrity of the current Senate leadership, suggesting that their controversial backgrounds threaten democratic principles and free speech.

“They have silenced, intimidated, and harassed opposition senators, forcing them to keep quiet. This is not democratic, and it’s not acceptable,” said Rafsanjani.

He emphasized the importance of a vibrant Senate that speaks for the people, especially in times of national crisis.

CISLAC Boss called on all senators to fulfill their duty of holding the central government accountable, irrespective of party loyalty, to ensure the Senate remains a check on government excesses.

Rafsanjani warned that silencing dissent and marginalizing outspoken senators like Ndume and Abdul Ahmed Ningi risks rendering the Senate irrelevant.

While calling for the recognition and respect of senators’ contributions, he urged the Senate to uphold democratic values and represent the interests of the Nigerian people effectively.

PDP governors in no position to advise Tinubu on governance or rate his performance -TMSG

The Tinubu Media Group (TMSG) has revealed the hypocrisy of the PDP governors describing them as chichidodos, a mythical bird that hates excreta but feed on worms that live in faeces.

The group made the remarks on Sunday in Abuja following the governors’ comments on the Tinubu administration.

In a twist of irony, the PDP governors who had feasted on the enormous allocations being generated by the Tinubu administration have turned to accuse the same government of non – performance.

The TMSG, in a statement signed by its Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo, noted that the PDP governors statement was down to insincerity and smirks of being arrogantly sanctimonious. Non-performing governors like those of the PDP are a burden on the country, the group emphasised.

“The governors elected on the platform of the PDP are in no position to advice President Bola Tinubu on governance or rate his performance in office because none of them has done anything worthwhile with the improved revenue they had been getting since Tinubu assumed office in the last one year.

The group said: “Going through the communique issued by PDP governors on sundry national issues at the end of their meeting in Enugu, we were not surprised that they took pot shots at President Bola Tinubu who has over the years been the nemesis of their party even before his assumption of office.

“But we find it shameful that state governors, with little or no real performance to their names in spite of a quantum leap in public funds allocated to them in over one year, are pointing fingers of blame at the President.

“We consider this as an act of hypocrisy, but we also recognize that they have to play the politics of opposition, which in Nigeria denotes abuse or canvassing false narratives.

“Just like President Tinubu, we acknowledge that the twin policies of fuel subsidy removal and unification of multiple exchange rates as well as high cost of living globally have exacerbated the high cost of living in the country but, it has also led to improved allocations from the federation account to all tiers of government which these governors enjoy.

“Our question for this group of governors is,what have they been doing with the public funds at their disposal to the extent that they themselves have had to raise posers on the ability of subnationals to pay the new minimum wage?

” The Federal government has also been extending support to state governments, regardless of party affiliation, but there are no signs of massive infrastructure projects in many of the states that are commensurate with the funds the governors have been receiving.

“And lest we forget, some of these governors are presiding over oil-producing states which incidentally have the highest number of people living in multidimensional poverty even after years of receiving enormous allocations tied to resources.

“Yet these are governors who chose to “express dismay at the management of the economy” rather than sit down and engage in a sincere peer review mechanism that will enhance performance in their respective States.

TMSG also wondered what the PDP governors meant by the good old days of the former ruling party.

“We found it laughable that members of a party that presided over multiple oil boom eras with little to show for it could engage in a revisionist ploy to hoodwink gullible Nigerians.

“This is a political party which plundered Nigeria’s hard-earned resources and squandered its national patrimony for a period of 16 years and ring-fenced hundreds of state-owned companies and investments through an opaque privatization process.

“It is easy for PDP governors to play the populist card by bringing up price of food items and the pump price of fuel but Nigerians have not forgotten the massive diversion of oil revenue into private foreign bank accounts as well as

the deliberate neglect of public infrastructure in the face of huge revenue earnings.

Recalling what Information minister Mohammed Idris told PDP governors sometime in February this year,TMSG said listed the many achievements of President Bola Tinubu.

‘The President and his administration recognise the unfinished business of revamping our national economy kickstarted by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari,’’ the group referred to the minister as saying.

The minister said the government has achieved breakthrough in such programmes that focused on large-scale infrastructure, social welfare, prioritizing the equipping of, and welfare of the military and security agencies. So also is the reclaiming of Nigeria’s strategic place in the comity of nations.’’

He added that Boko Haram and its affiliates, which were on the ascendancy in 2014/2015, have since been decimated, and similar bold gains are now being made with bandits and other criminals.’

“If a 16-year period marked by those harsh realities were the good old days the PDP governors were referencing, then our message to them is, Never again,” the pro-Tinubu group added.

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TSF Commends Federal Government’s Initiative to Address Food Shortage Across Nigeria

The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has commended the Federal Government for its proactive measures in addressing the critical issue of food shortage across Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its Chairman Ahmad Sajoh and Secretary Afolabi Josiah on Sunday in Abuja, the group said the measures including the dispatch of trailer loads of food supplies to states are a reflection of the administration commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.

“This initiative of dispatching 20 trailer loads of 25kg bags of rice to each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) through state governments underscores the Tinubu administration’s commitment to alleviating hardship among the most vulnerable members of society.

“We see the distribution of these rice supplies to the states as a laudable effort to ensure equitable access and support for those in need.

“We at TSF recognise, acknowledge, and support this additional step taken by the government to bolster food security measures and express hope that the subnational governments will ensure that the supplies get to those they are meant for.

“We are encouraged by the knowledge that this effort by the Tinubu administration is not a standalone one as it supplements existing government strategies aimed at enhancing food security nationwide

“So for us, President Bola Tinubu, has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to safeguarding the welfare of all Nigerians, particularly during challenging times, the TSF affirmed.

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Tinubu’s intervention in national minimum wage crisis, great relief for Nigerians- Group

The Democratic Front (TDF) has described the successful intervention of President Bola Tinubu in the long standing crisis over a new national minimum wage as a great relief for Nigerians.

It said in a statement signed by its Chairman Danjuma Muhammad and Secretary Wale Adedayo that it was a reflection of the President’s solid,time-tested negotiation skills.

“We welcome the cheery news of the resolution of the lingering minimum wage crisis and the role played by President Tinubu in breaking the deadlock.

“As many Nigerians may have realized now, it took the intervention of the President to break the impasse between Federal Government officials and that of Organized Labour after the tripartite committee had completed its 6-month assignment without all parties reaching an agreement.

“What better way could anyone describe a situation where the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress NLC and that of the Trade Union Congress TUC gave the President a standing ovation as soon as the deal was sealed.

“This for us is a reflection of the political will to get things done even when confronted with a dead end so President Tinubu deserves credit for staving off a potential Labour crisis which could have impacted negatively on the economy.

“As we all know, the history of faceoffs between Labour and Government is rooted in a series of multi-dimensional trajectory that have impacted negatively on national productivity.

“Whenever we remember in retrospect, the exemplary role President Bola Tinubu played in 2016, as a non state actor, to prevail on the then Ayuba Wabba led NLC to call off an active nation-wide strike over the national minimum wage, our confidence in his ability to successfully break the impasse was never in doubt. And we were indeed proved right.

“So we believe the President deserves to be appreciated for the manner he got the two Labour centres to shift ground from their earlier wage demand to accept the new offer of N70,000, despite its consequences on the recurrent expenditure.

“We also laud the President for his unwavering determination to cushion the effects of subsidy removal by going beyond wage increase to allocating N100 bn for the purchase of CNG buses and CNG conversion kits across Nigeria, as well as also providing N125bn to energise MSMEs.

“The President’s intervention measure of N185 bn palliative loans to all state of the federation should equally be appreciated within the same context.

“We however know that some people have been calculating the new minimum wage in dollar terms without considering Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) but we make bold to say, for instance that the naira equivalent of $100 could buy a lot more in Nigeria than what same amount could get in any American city.

“So for us, a new minimum wage which is more than twice the previous one should be viewed from local perspective which obviously Labour acceded to by accepting the President’s offer,” it added.

The group also urged Organized labour to continue to cooperate with government in order to make ongoing reforms a success.

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Features: Jeremiah Koung’s Cerebral Cortex for Good leadership

By Emmanuel Daudu (Nigeria Journalist)

The political landscape of Liberia, a nation with a rich history and a complex fabric of socio-political dynamics, has been shaped by the contributions of numerous individuals whose aspirations and actions have influenced the course of its governance. One such individual, who has recently risen to prominence, is the Honourable Jeremiah Koung – a figure that encapsulates the quintessence of contemporary Liberian politics.

Jeremiah Koung’s ascent within Liberia’s political sphere has been marked by a striking trajectory, symbolising simultaneously the trials and triumphs that characterise the nation’s politics. Born and nurtured in a country marred by civil conflict and economic trials, Koung’s narrative is ostensibly that of a steadfast pursuit of political influence, underscored by an adherence to the principles of dedication and service to his compatriots.

First and foremost, the impact of Koung’s political strategy, underscored by his advocacy for health and social welfare, is not to be underestimated. Prior to assuming his current role, he was instrumental in the establishment of a notable hospital in Nimba County, which is considered a bastion of his influence. This palpable commitment to health care lends credence to the assertion that Koung is not merely a political figurehead, but a servant of the public interest, championing initiatives that matter deeply to the citizenry.

However, the purely idealistic depiction of any political figure is often tempered by the realities of the political machinations they must navigate.

Moreover, Koung’s tenure as Vice President is laden with expectations. With a focus on economic rejuvenation and national unity, his office has been tasked with the formidable challenge of navigating Liberia through the quagmires of post-conflict rebuilding and socio-economic enhancement. The global context within which Koung operates is challenging, a point underscored by The Liberian Observer, which emphasises the difficulty of enacting substantive policy changes in an era of global economic uncertainty.

The foresight and adaptability required in such a role are monumental, but they offer a canvas upon which Koung’s capacity and potential can be projected. Should he succeed in actualising the economic aspirations and fostering unity he espouses, his tenure would be etched into the annals of Liberian political history as an exemplar.

It is here that one must consider the essence of political acumen – not solely in translating aspiration into action but in marshalling the unity of diverse interests towards a common good.

The Liberian Vice President’s international undertakings reflect another dimension of his influence. As head of the Liberian delegation to international forums, Koung’s role in articulating and advancing Liberia’s interests in the global arena is pivotal. The prestige and gravitas he brings to international negotiations have a direct bearing on how Liberia is perceived and treated on the world stage. It is in these arenas that the diplomatic finesse of a country’s leadership is put to the test, and by many accounts, Koung has acquitted himself with a level of competency that deserves acknowledgment

Critically, a nuanced study of Koung’s influence must also engage with the discourse on governance and the investment in Liberia’s youth. The demographic reality of Liberia is that it is a nation with a sizable youth population, many of whom look to leaders like Koung for direction and inspiration. His approach to tackling issues such as education, employment, and entrepreneurship will indelibly shape the future of countless young Liberians and, by the same token, the country’s prospects for sustained progress and stability.

It is impossible to foretell the ultimate impact of Jeremiah Koung’s vice-presidency with certitude; political landscapes are, by nature, shifting sands shaped by many hands.

However, the potency of Koung’s position lies as much in the present as in any future legacy. It is how he manoeuvres through the labyrinth of current socio-political pressures, how he addresses the immediate concerns of his fellow Liberians, and how he reconciles divergent expectations into a coherent vision for Liberia that will define his tenure.

Jeremiah Kough’s ascendancy to the vice-presidency of Liberia is a subject ripe for argumentative discourse. His political prowess is underscored by his dedication to public welfare, his involvement in contentious political skirmishes, and his navigation of the complex interplays of governance. Moreover, his impact on international relations and investment in the future generation compounds the intricacies of his influence. While one may contend with various aspects of his political journey, it is beyond dispute that Koung’s role is a microcosm of the broader dynamics that shape Liberia’s ongoing narrative. As with all political figures, the true measure of his legacy will be determined by the outcomes of his decisions and the perceptions of those he serves. Time, as ever, will be the ultimate arbiter of Jeremiah Koung’s mark on Liberian political history.

In the last few years, the West African nation of Liberia has navigated through a labyrinth of political and socioeconomic challenges to gradually cement its democratic credentials. Part of this ongoing transformation involves the individuals at the helm of governance, notably the Vice President, Jeremiah Koung.

The Vice Presidency is pivotal to the function of the Liberian Government. It acts as the second highest political office and is integral in ensuring that the wheels of democracy keep turning. Vice President Koung, since assuming his role, has been overwhelmingly engaged both nationally and internationally to influencing peace, projects, programs across board to better the economy of the nation and the lives of its citizens.

Before Koung’s ascendancy to vice presidency, his tenure as a legislator had been marked by various contributions to the country’s political and legislative landscape. Democracy thrives on political stability, which is fostered by the implementation of policies that emanate from a legislative framework. Koung’s legislative career, which involves the sponsoring of bills and the active participation in the legislative processes, provided a bedrock for his current role as the Vice president of Liberia.

One of the hallmarks of a thriving democracy is the accountability of its leaders to its citizenry. In this administration, efforts to increase transparency, chiefly initiated by Koung, have been commended by various watchdogs and international agencies. His push to open up government dealings to public scrutiny demonstrates a commitment to a democratic dividend that not only strengthens governance but also empowers citizens.

Vice President Koung has been a champion for enhancing civic engagement, thereby promoting one of the key tenets of democracy – the involvement of citizens in the decision-making processes. His support for initiatives that encourage community involvement in governance matters has been a testament to his belief in a government ‘of the people, by the people, for the people’.

Democracy is not just about the political system; it also encompasses the socio-economic development of a nation. Vice President Koung has often highlighted the importance of education as a fundamental democratic right that enables individuals to participate fully in society. By backing educational reforms and advocating for social programs that aim to lift individuals out of poverty, Koung is contributing to the creation of an informed and empowered populace that is essential for the health of any democracy.

Another dimension where Vice President Koung’s influence has been palpable is in the sphere of human rights and gender equality. Access to rights and equal treatment under the law are critical components of a democracy, and strides in these areas reflect the health of a nation’s political system. Koung has publicly expressed support for policies that fight discrimination and promote the rights of all Liberians, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion.

This commitment could potentially see an increase in respect for human rights and more opportunities for women, thus enriching Liberia’s democratic fabric, which is goal 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs. This makes him automatically a He for She Ambassador.

Democracy is an ongoing journey, and Liberia’s road is no exception. Vice President Jeremiah Koung’s tenure has undeniably coincided with a period of burgeoning democratic change. His promotion of accountability, civic engagement, educational investment, and a focus on human rights and gender equality are initiatives that seem to drive the democratic dividends that Liberians are beginning to reap. While it is true that much work remains to be done, and criticism must be acknowledged, it is also fair to recognize the potential positives stemming from the Vice President’s actions and policies.

As Liberia continues to navigate its democratic path, the office of the Vice President, occupied by Jeremiah Koung, will remain instrumental in shaping the direction of the country. With continued emphasis on these democratic principles and the engagement of its citizens, Liberia is poised to enjoy the fruits of a robust and mature democracy, ultimately benefiting all Liberians.

In the realm of Liberian politics, the figure of Jeremiah Koung, as he ascends to the role of Vice President, carries with it a plethora of expectations and apprehensions concerning the nurturing and enhancement of democratic principles in Liberia. Acclaimed for his leadership and revered by his adherents, Koung now faces the pivotal challenge of aligning his perceived leadership style with the broader democratic mission necessary for progression in Liberia’s sociopolitical context.

Jeremiah Koung, a former member of the Liberian House of Representatives and now the incumbent Vice President, is perceived by many as an individual with a strong mandate to lead. His ascendancy in Liberian politics is marked by his prior commitment to addressing the issues faced by his constituents in District 1 of Nimba County.

Koung’s efforts have often been praised for being community-centric, focusing on tangible developments such as health care and education. However, it is imperative to explore how the personal leadership qualities of Koung translate into his capacity and willingness to propagate and uphold democratic principles in his role as Vice President.

A democratic mission in the Liberian context is not simply a political necessity but also a collective aspiration for a society that has been deeply scarred by civil strife and governance challenges. It revolves around the fortification of institutions, the safeguarding of human rights, and the establishment of an accountable governance model that resonates with Liberians’ democratic aspirations. As the Vice President, Koung’s role in this democratic mission is critical, as his authority and actions could potentially influence the direction of Liberian democracy.

Proponents of Jeremiah Koung argue that his leadership posterior is fundamentally aligned with democratic values. They highlight his community-based initiatives, grassroots connection, and responsiveness to constituents’ needs as indicators of his democratic commitment. Koung’s defenders also point out his advocacy for transparency in government dealings, as evidenced by his push for accountability measures in public projects and his own alleged lifestyle of relatively modest means compared to other politicians.

Moreover, Koung’s leadership style—often described as consultative and inclusive—mirrors the participatory governance model central to democracy. Through engaging community voices in the decision-making process and fostering a culture of participation, Koung demonstrates a commitment to involving the citizenry in governance, a cornerstone of democratic systems.

To evaluate Koung’s potential to further Liberia’s democratic mission, one must cautiously balance the arguments for and against his democratic alignment. On one hand, there seems to be a genuine connection between Koung’s community focus and the nurturing of a participatory democracy. Since democracy thrives on active citizen engagement, his style of leadership could stimulate broader civic participation and public debate, providing a fertile ground for democratic ethos to flourish.

Conversely, the true measure of a democracy goes beyond community engagement—it necessitates adherence to the rule of law, protection of minority rights, and a steadfast commitment to political pluralism.

As an influential and ascendant figure in Liberian politics, Jeremiah Koung is poised at a crossroads that will either consolidate or undermine Liberia’s democratic mission. While his leadership style has elements that suggest a democratic disposition, it is imperative that he espouses consistent democratic values through transparent and accountable governance. In doing so, Koung has the potential not only to enhance his leadership perception but to solidify his vice presidency as a critical juncture in Liberia’s democratic journey.

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By Emmanuel Huleji Daudu
Editor-In-Chief, Africa Security Investigation News,
Global Founder,
World Sustainable Development Goals Organization
+234 9036683775
daudupress@gmail.com
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