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Guber aspirant accuses Oyegun, NWC of manipulating ward congress

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A governorship aspirant in Ebonyi state under the All Progressive Congress, APC, Dr Adol Awam Chris on Wednesday said no ward Congress have so far been held in his Ebonyi Local Government Area.

Mr Awam also raised alarm of plans by some members of the state Working Committee of the party of trying to stage a kangaroo congress in his local government.

He accused some SWC members of working in conjunction with the John Oyegun led National Working Committee to write fake results and submit same to the National office so as fix delegates who will vote for them at the party’s state and national conventions in a desperate bid to retain their positions.

This is even as a member of the party Achi Simeon was attacked by some members of another faction of the party on his way to Mr Awam’s meeting.

Last Saturday’s local government ward congress in Ebonyi was marred with irregularities as two separate factions allegedly held parallel congress in the state.

The  Eze Nwachukwu led faction which enjoys the support of Oyegun and the NWC had opted for harmonisation among party stakeholders so as to remove rancour and controver.

However, Mr Nwachukwu on Saturday night confirmed that four local governments including Ebonyi could not harmonise adding that a new date will be fixed for the conduct of the congress for them.

Also, the Congress committee Chairman had said any local government that fails to harmonise, a new date will be announced for the conduct of their own ward congress.

“But, yesterday without announcing it or informing us, some members of the party came and said they were coming to conduct congress”, Mr Awam told reporters at the Ugwuachara Primary School.

He was there to brief his constituents on the latest situation in the party with regards to the ward congress.

“There was nothing like congress in Ebonyi local government area whether on Saturday, Sunday or even today.  If anybody presents any result at the party secretariat whether in the state or at the national headquarters then it is a doctored result”.

“On Saturday, the Committee sent to conduct congress said we should harmonise but we were not able to harmonise till now. But we got information from someone that our congress will hold today. But the Chairman did not inform me of this. I called INEC and they said they are not aware”.

“They said they got later from the party today notifying them of the inability of pour local government to conduct the election. They further told me that we have to give them at least 7 days in line with the electoral law to come and conduct the election”.

“So how will they conduct the congress for our local government without INEC or Police presence?”, Awa said.

While calling on the state chapter of the party to allow internal democracy in the party if the party must defeat the ruling People’s Democratic Party(PDP), Mr Awam accused the National Working Committee of the party of orchestrating the crisis, violence and irregularities that characterized the exercises in many states of the federation to remain in power.

According to him, declaring harmonization in the congresses of the party without going to the field to enable members of the party to freely elect their leaders was undemocratic and unconstitutional

“We came from the ACN that formed this our great party, APC but the manipulation in the congress shows that they want to completely remove the ACN family from the APC  in the scheme of things as far as Ebonyi state is concerned and we will not agree, I will take it up with to any level they want it”, he said.

Awam who was a former Chairman of the local government accused a faction of the party in the state of imposing harmonization in the congresses to sideline some leaders of the party and called for what he  described as ‘real congress’ in Ebonyi local government area.

“As far as Ebonyi local government is concerned, there was no ward congress. A faction of the party cooked result and said congress has been conducted. I have already written to appeal panel and I will follow my petition to ensure that justice is done.

“I also wrote to the state Chairman of the party and he acknowledged the petition. I drew his mind to the electoral act which states that since the congress did not hold on the announced date, they have to give at least seven days before another one can hold and up till now, he has not told me there would be congress in my local government”, he stated.

Mr Nwachukwu did not take numerous calls placed to his phone. He also did not reply messages sent to him at press time.

Also Mr Bolaji Abdulahi, National Publicity Secretary of the party could equally not be reached for comments.

Meanwhile, Mr Simeon Achi narrated how he was attacked at Udensi roundabout for no other reason than he was supporting Mr Awam.

Mr Achi who said he was attacked near Udensi roundabout by three men sustained injuries on his face and hand from the attack.

“I was in a bus coming to this place from town. As we got to Udensi roundabout, someone wanted to drop so I came down to enable the person to alight from the bus. Then these three young men who were in the bus came down and started beating. They told me that they are attacking me because I was supporting Adol Awam. I don’t know their names but I know them by face, they are members of another faction of our party”, the victim said.

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Dangote Refinery to Begin Nationwide Distribution of PMS, Diesel, for smooth logistics to marketers

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The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced that it will begin distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel nationwide.

The statement added that the Refinery has invested in the procurement of 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers to ensure smooth take-off of the scheme, which will continue over an extended timeframe

The statement said, “To ensure the smooth takeoff of the free logistics for marketers and petrol dealers buying from Dangote, the statement further disclosed that the refinery has procured 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers.

“This phase of the programme will continue over an extended timeframe. The refinery is also investing in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, commonly referred to as daughter booster stations, supported by a fleet of over 100 CNG tankers across the country to ensure seamless product distribution.

This strategic programme is part of our broader commitment to eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. It affirms our dedication to improving the availability and affordability of fuel, in support of broader efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the well-being of all Nigerians.

“Under this initiative, all petrol stations purchasing PMS and diesel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will benefit from this enhanced logistics support. Key sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and others will also gain from this transformative initiative, as reduced fuel costs will contribute to lower production costs, reduced inflation, and foster economic growth. Players in these key sectors and others can purchase directly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced that it will begin distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel nationwide.

In a statement on Sunday, the company said effective from 15th of August 2025, it will begin the distribution of the products to marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecoms firms, aviation, and other large users across the country, with free logistics to boost distribution network.

The move, according to the company, was a significant national initiative aimed at transforming Nigeria’s fuel distribution landscape.

The statement added that the Refinery has invested in the procurement of 4,000 brand-new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers to ensure smooth take-off of the scheme, which will continue over an extended timeframe.

“This phase of the programme will continue over an extended timeframe. The refinery is also investing in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations, commonly referred to as daughter booster stations, supported by a fleet of over 100 CNG tankers across the country to ensure seamless product distribution.

“This strategic programme is part of our broader commitment to eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. It affirms our dedication to improving the availability and affordability of fuel, in support of broader efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the well-being of all Nigerians.

“Under this initiative, all petrol stations purchasing PMS and diesel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will benefit from this enhanced logistics support. Key sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and others will also gain from this transformative initiative, as reduced fuel costs will contribute to lower production costs, reduced inflation, and foster economic growth. Players in these key sectors and others can purchase directly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.”

The statement added that the refinery will offer a credit facility to those purchasing a minimum of 500,000 litres, which would allow them to obtain an additional 500,000 litres on credit for two weeks, under bank guarantee.

It described the effort as a milestone in its vision to revolutionise the Nigeria’s energy sector.

“This pioneering effort marks a major milestone in our vision to revolutionise Nigeria’s energy sector. Dangote Refinery is dedicated to ensuring that no place is left behind. Our goal is to provide equitable access to affordable fuel for all Nigerians, regardless of location, making energy more accessible and sustainable for everyone, wherever they may b

 

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NMA FCT Issues Indefinite Strike Threat Over Alleged Ethnic Victimisation and Unjust Dismissal of Three Abuja Doctors

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Tensions are rising at the National Hospital Abuja (NHA) as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) FCT Branch threatens an indefinite strike following the controversial dismissal of three medical doctors. According to insider sources, the crisis is unfolding under the leadership of Dr. Mahmud Raji, the Chief Medical Director (CMD), who is alleged to be using his office to intimidate these doctors—believed to have been targeted because of their opinions. This disturbing allegation has intensified outrage within the medical community, raising serious concerns about fairness, professionalism, and ethnic bias within the healthcare system.

In what is fast becoming a major flashpoint in Nigeria’s embattled healthcare sector, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) FCT Branch has issued a 14-day strike ultimatum to the management of National Hospital Abuja over the controversial and unexplained disengagement of three medical doctors who have served the hospital diligently for years.

In a strongly worded notice dated June 11, 2025, following its Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) held at the VIP Hall of the Federal Medical Centre Abuja, the NMA FCT leadership formally communicated its dissatisfaction with the National Hospital’s refusal to reinstate its disengaged members. The affected doctors, who completed their residency training in 2020, were appointed as locum consultants in March 2022 after working as post-Part II fellows. After three years of dedicated service, they were abruptly dismissed without any stated reason—unlike their contemporaries who remain in service. The hospital only stated that “their services were no longer needed” and advised them to reapply when vacancies arise.

The association described the move as selective victimisation and scapegoating, pointing out that 30 doctors were employed under similar terms, yet only three were let go. Multiple advocacy efforts—including visits from the NMA President, FCT Chairman, and a committee of senior, reputable medical professionals—have all been ignored by the hospital’s leadership.

The NMA expressed deep frustration that despite its peaceful engagement efforts, the hospital remained unmoved, even in the face of the ongoing “japa” wave—mass migration of medical professionals abroad—leaving Nigeria’s healthcare system dangerously understaffed.

“This disengagement worsens an already fragile system, adding to the mental and economic burdens of doctors, increasing anxiety and threatening family stability,” the NMA noted in its communiqué.

The association has now declared that if the doctors are not reinstated, members at National Hospital Abuja will embark on a total and indefinite strike from June 30, 2025, following a two-week warning strike from June 15–29. If after seven days of this action no resolution is achieved, the entire NMA FCT branch will join the strike in solidarity.

Investigations within the hospital revealed that the affected doctors had no records of disciplinary actions or professional misconduct. Their Heads of Department (HODs) had recommended them for continued service, and it was confirmed that they were already on the IPPIS scale, meaning they posed no additional financial burden to the hospital.

The outrage is further fueled by the irony that, while NMA is pushing for an increase in doctors’ retirement age to 70 due to acute personnel shortages, National Hospital is disengaging young, skilled doctors who chose to remain in Nigeria instead of seeking better opportunities abroad. “Are we saying NHA has enough specialists to let go of such committed professionals?” the association questioned.

Doctors familiar with the affected doctors shared personal testimonies: “I worked with Dr. Fernandez during the COVID-19 pandemic. We carried out countless caesarean sections when fear was palpable. Only a doctor with heart would do that. Is this how the system rewards bravery?”

Emotionally charged reactions have poured in from across the country. A senior doctor lamented: “It’s difficult to believe that doctors would ignore juicy offers abroad to make the sacrifice of practising in Nigeria, only to be treated like trash for speaking up on poor welfare. How do you keep a doctor as locum for 3 years, earning barely ₦400,000, and expect them to live a dignified life? This is the reward for years of service?”

He added that the refusal of the hospital to heed the advice of the NMA President and respected elders “is deeply worrisome” and raises concerns of possible hidden motives.

The broader concern is that this crisis could demoralize others in the system. “We are already overwhelmed, underpaid, and understaffed, yet our sacrifices are ignored,” the doctor continued. “Meanwhile, national honours are reserved for political loyalists, while real heroes are discarded.”

He appealed to the NMA and well-meaning members to establish a financial support plan for the affected doctors, who have now been unpaid for three months, pushing them to the brink emotionally and economically.

In his final remarks, he called for unity: “All hands must be on deck to preserve the Hippocratic brotherhood we swore to uphold. A brother should not snuff the life out of another. This is not the future we envisaged. We must fight to leave a better one for the next generation.”

As the clock ticks toward June 30, the healthcare sector in the FCT braces for what may become one of the most consequential strikes in recent years—one born not just from policy failure, but from a cry for justice, equity, and professional dignity.

The NMA is also using this opportunity to call on the Minister of Health, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, to urgently intervene before the situation escalates further. At a time when the country is grappling with critical challenges in the healthcare sector—and the President is actively working to reverse the “japa” trend and restore stability through the Renewed Hope Agenda—it would be deeply unfortunate for such avoidable crises to undermine those efforts. Supporting doctors who have chosen to remain in Nigeria is essential to rebuilding trust and encouraging others, both at home and abroad, to return and contribute to the nation’s healthcare revival.

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BREAKING: Tinubu honours Abiola, Kudirat, Soyinka, Onanuga others in State of the Nation address

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on more than 80 Nigerians—both living and deceased—during his inaugural State of the Nation address in honour of this year’s Democracy Day.

The President, who reeled the names out with other messages while addressing a joint session of the National Assembly to mark 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria on Thursday, also announced the granting of full pardon to the heroes of the Ogoni Struggle, identified as the Ogoni nine.

The president used the solemn occasion to commemorate key figures in the June 12 pro-democracy movement, notably Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, his late wife Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, and environmental rights activist Ken Saro-Wiwa.

Alhaja Kudirat Abiola was posthumously awarded the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for her role in resisting military rule, a struggle that ultimately led to her assassination. Tinubu described her as the “heroine of the June 12 struggle.”

Also honoured was the late Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, who received the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), the highest national honour typically reserved for heads of state.

He was recognised for mobilising political resistance to military rule and advancing democratic reforms.

Other posthumous recipients included key figures in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement: Professor Humphrey Nwosu (CON), who chaired the National Electoral Commission during the 1993 elections; Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON); Pa Alfred Rewane (CFR); Bagauda Kaltho (OON); Chima Ubani (OON); Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON); Chief Alao Aka-Bashorun (CON); and Chief Frank Kokori (CON), among others.

The list extended to civil rights advocates, journalists, politicians, and unionists who lost their lives in the pursuit of justice and democracy.

Honourees included Emma Ezeazu, Bamidele Aturu, Fredrick Fasehun, Professor Festus Iyayi, Dr. John Yima Sen, Alhaja Gambo Sawaba, Dr. Edwin Madunagu, Dr. Alex Ibru, Chief Bola Ige, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Senator Ayo Fasanmi, Senator Polycarp Nwite, and Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo.

In a move described as symbolic of national reconciliation, Tinubu posthumously recognised Ken Saro-Wiwa and his fellow environmental activists known as the Ogoni Nine, who were executed in 1995 under the regime of General Sani Abacha.

Saro-Wiwa was awarded the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), while Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine were each awarded the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).

The President further announced that he would invoke his constitutional powers to grant a full state pardon to the Ogoni Nine and others, whose names will be released following consultations with the National Council of State.

Living icons of democratic activism and intellectual freedom were also celebrated. Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), while renowned journalism scholar Professor Olatunji Dare received the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

Related NewsProminent journalists and media pioneers were similarly honoured: Kunle Ajibade (OON), Nosa Igiebor (OON), Dapo Olorunyomi (OON), Bayo Onanuga (CON), Ayo Obe (OON), Dare Babarinsa (CON), and Seye Kehinde (OON).

Among the human rights lawyers and activists honoured were Femi Falana, SAN (CON), Barrister Felix Morka (CON), Barrister Ledum Mitee (CON), and Professor Shafideen Amuwo (CON).

Other notable recipients included Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), Senator Shehu Sani (CON), Governor Uba Sani (CON), Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi (CON), Honourable Labaran Maku (OON), Dr. Tunji Alausa (CON), Mr. Nick Dazang (OON), Hon. Abdul Oroh (OON), Barrister Luke Aghanenu (OON), Odia Ofeimun (CON), Hon. Olawale Osun (CON), Dr. Amos Akingba (CON), and Professor Segun Gbadegesin (CON).

Further commendations went to Professor Julius Ihonvbere, Professor Bayo Williams, Senator Abu Ibrahim, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Dr. Kayode Shonoiki, and Senator Ameh Ebute, who were also recognised with honours ranging from Commander to Grand Commander of the Federal Republic.

Veteran journalist and Vanguard Newspapers founder Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu was honoured with a Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), a day before his 90th birthday.

President Tinubu also formally decorated the current presiding officers of the National Assembly, who had previously received national honours:

Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio (GCON)

Speaker of the House of RepresentativesTajudeen Abbas (GCON)

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (CFR)

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu (CFR)

“The honours were not just symbolic, but a national acknowledgment of those who defended truth, fought repression, and expanded Nigeria’s democratic space”, Tinubu said.

He called on Nigerians, particularly political leaders, to uphold the values of the June 12 movement in their actions and policies.

“We must rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12: freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed”, he said.

President Tinubu concluded his address with a call for national reflection and progress, urging the country to move beyond symbolic recognition and build a future anchored on the sacrifices of past heroes.

 

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