NEWS
ASUP Issues Two-Week Ultimatum To FG Over Unmet Demands
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has issued a two-week ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding action on a series of unresolved issues affecting the nation’s polytechnic education sector.
The ultimatum is set to commence on October 7 and will end on October 25, 2024. If the government fails to address the demands, ASUP may resort to industrial action.
The announcement was made by ASUP President, Shammah Kpanja, during a press conference following the Union’s National Executive Council meeting in Abuja.
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Kpanja emphasized that the ultimatum was necessary due to ongoing grievances that were discussed in the 111th NEC session.
Key issues highlighted by Kpanja include allegations of impunity and a lack of adherence to the Federal Polytechnics Act and various state edicts governing polytechnic institutions.
He noted that these problems hinder the appointment of principal officers in both Federal and State-Owned Polytechnics, which affects governance in the sector.
Kpanja expressed concern over the non-review of the contentious “Schemes of Service for Polytechnics” document and the failure to release conditions of service, which are critical for the functioning of polytechnics.
He also criticized the government for not releasing the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment intervention funds.
Another major point of contention is the alleged overreach of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into the responsibilities of Academic Boards regarding the admission of Higher National Diploma students.
Kpanja stated that this interference undermines the integrity of the academic system.
Additionally, he lamented the absence of provisions for the peculiar academic allowances of members in the upcoming budget, as well as the failure of state-owned polytechnics to implement a 35/25% salary review and settle outstanding arrears for Federal Polytechnics staff.
Kpanja also addressed the unresolved CONTISS 15 Migration arrears for lower cadre members and the lack of progress on the renegotiation of the ASUP/FGN 2010 agreement.
“Should the government ignore our demands, we will mobilize our members for protests,” Kpanja warned, reiterating the union’s commitment to advocating for a functional polytechnic education system.
He concluded, “Our union hereby issues a 15-day ultimatum as required by law, commencing from 7th October 2024. We hope the government will utilize this period to address these critical issues and prevent an imminent shutdown of the sector.”
Following the ultimatum, the ASUP National Executive Council will reconvene to decide on further actions based on the government’s response.
Union chapters across the country have been instructed to prepare for potential protests and media campaigns during this period.
NEWS
Dangote Refinery Cuts Petrol Price To ₦970 per Litre For Marketers
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reduction in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, to ₦970 per litre for oil marketers.
This new price, effective immediately, marks a ₦20 decrease from the refinery’s previous ex-depot price of ₦990 per litre, which was set earlier this month.
In a statement released on Sunday, Anthony Chiejina, the refinery’s Chief Branding and Communications Officer, explained that the price reduction is a way for the company to express its appreciation to Nigerians for their unwavering support in making the refinery a reality.
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“This decision is our way of thanking Nigerians for their unwavering support in making the refinery a dream come true,” Chiejina said.
The statement also highlighted the refinery’s gratitude towards the Nigerian government, acknowledging the role of government measures in supporting domestic businesses.
“In addition, this is to thank the government for their support, as this will complement the measures put in place to encourage domestic enterprise for our collective well-being,” the statement read.
Despite the price cut, the refinery reassured consumers that there would be no compromise on the quality of its products. “While the refinery would not compromise on the quality of its petroleum products, we assure you of best quality products that are environmentally friendly and sustainable,” the statement added.
The company also committed to ramping up production to meet domestic fuel consumption and alleviate concerns over potential supply shortages.
“We are determined to keep ramping up production to meet and surpass our domestic fuel consumption; thus, dispelling any fear of a shortfall in supply,” the statement concluded.
The price reduction is expected to save marketers approximately ₦20 per litre on purchases from the refinery’s Lekki-based plant.
NEWS
I Am Just A Content Creator – Simon Ekpa Denies Biafran Leadership Role
Simon Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent and a controversial figure in the Biafran separatist movement, has dismissed his self-styled title of “Prime Minister of Biafra” as inconsequential.
Speaking during legal proceedings at the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, Ekpa stated, “I am just a content creator; the issue of Prime Minister of Biafra is not serious.”
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Ekpa’s statement comes in the wake of his arrest by Finnish authorities on charges related to incitement of terrorism.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has accused Ekpa of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
The arrest stems from an incident in Lahti on August 23, 2021, and officials are also seeking the detention of four other suspects linked to the case.
“The detention demands are related to a preliminary investigation in which a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, born in the 1980s, is suspected of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent,” the NBI said in a statement.
Ekpa, who has used his social media platforms to advocate for Biafran independence, has been a divisive figure in Nigeria’s southeast region.
His rhetoric and actions, including calls for economic shutdowns through “sit-at-home” orders, have been linked to widespread unrest and disruptions in the region.
NEWS
National Assembly In Top Gear For Tinubu’s 2025 Budget Presentation
The National Assembly management team, led by Clerk Sani Magaji Tambawal, has ramped up efforts to ensure a seamless presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The event, scheduled for a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives, is regarded as a significant moment in Nigeria’s legislative calendar.
Preparations include a thorough inspection of the assembly chambers to ensure all facilities are fully functional.
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Deputy Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana, who is overseeing the technical arrangements, confirmed that key systems, including microphones, sound equipment, and other audio-visual tools, have been tested to ensure smooth communication during the session.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that the National Assembly is fully prepared to receive Mr. President and provide a conducive environment for this significant moment in our democratic process,” Ogunlana stated.
Seating arrangements are also being finalized to accommodate lawmakers, government officials, and other dignitaries expected at the session.
Security measures are being reviewed in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of all attendees. Meanwhile, press accreditation is being managed to facilitate effective media coverage.
The 2025 budget presentation is expected to highlight the government’s economic priorities while reinforcing the partnership between the executive and legislative arms of government.
As the session approaches, the National Assembly has expressed its commitment to upholding Nigeria’s democratic values and providing a platform for transparent governance.