NEWS
Ride Bicycle, Avoid Smoky Vehicle – FRSC Tells Commuters
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a warning to the public regarding the usage of smoky vehicles, urging them to avoid such vehicles and consider using bicycles as an alternative mode of transportation.
Frederick Ogidan, the Commandant of the FRSC in Kwara State, delivered this cautionary message in Ilorin on Friday as part of the observance of the 7th United Nations Global Safety Week (UNGRSW).
Mr Ogidan underscored the need to embrace sustainable transportation means that are sustainable in terms of social and environmental impacts.
He said “Smoky vehicles are harmful and dangerous to health. The carbon emissions coming out are unsafe for your health and the environment.
“We encourage people to ride bicycles. Apart from health benefits or exercise; it does not emit any smoke that affects the environment.
“Smoke can block those coming from behind and cause an accident. We always arrest smoky vehicles because it is dangerous,” he added.
He further elaborated that the 2023 UNGRSW carries the theme “Transport Sustainable,” aiming to increase consciousness about road safety and implement measures that would effectively lower the number of road fatalities.
During the safety week, which commenced on May 15 and will concludes on May 21, the Kwara Command of the FRSC has diligently arranged various programs to commemorate this significant occasion.
As part of these efforts, Mr. Ogidan mentioned that a stakeholders’ engagement took place on Thursday, gathering representatives from transport unions, special marshals, and NGOs to actively participate in the awareness campaign.
Additionally, the commandant highlighted that the FRSC command arranged a workshop specifically designed for members of the Road Safety Club.
During this workshop, children were educated on important road safety practices such as how to safely cross roads, and discussions centered around various safety tips.
Furthermore, Mr. Ogidan mentioned that the FRSC would conduct a mosque advocacy campaign to raise road safety awareness among the congregation.
A similar initiative will be held on Sunday in churches, combining thanksgiving and a sensitization talk focused on safety tips.
“On Saturday, tomorrow, Wives of Road Safety Officers, our women wing, will be visiting orphanage homes and hospitals to make some donations to them and as well talk to them,” he said.
The commandant described a sustainable transportation system as one in which fuel consumption, vehicle emissions, safety, congestion, social and economic access are of such levels can be sustained into the indefinite future without causing irreparable harm to future generations.
“UNGRSW is a biennial global road safety campaign which brings together individuals, governments, NGOs and other stakeholders around the world to raise awareness on road safety.
“We are advocating the use of electric vehicles, bicycles, trains and low carbon vehicles as the best means of sustainable transport.
“Avoid smoky vehicles, bad tyres and always try to consistently visit mechanic workshops for routine service. Do not wait until a serious breakdown occurs before you start finding a solution.
“Sustainable transport is the best for our environment and health. We must embrace it,” he said.
However, Mr. Ogidan made an appeal to the government at all levels, urging them to prioritize the provision of dedicated lanes or passages for individuals who choose alternative means of transportation.
Furthermore, he emphasized the need for the establishment of bicycle tracks to facilitate smooth and safe movement of bicycles, while also fostering an environmentally sustainable transportation system.
NEWS
Fuel Pricing: PETROAN Accuses Dangote Refinery Of Monopoly
The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has raised concerns over alleged monopolistic practices by Dangote Refinery, following a public dispute about fuel pricing in the downstream petroleum sector.
Recall that the refinery, Africa’s largest, recently disclosed its petrol pricing at N990 per litre in trucks and N960 per litre into ships, a move it justifies as being in line with international rates.
READ MORE: Nigeria’s Debt Service Ratio Falls To 65% As Tinubu Tackles Economic Woes
PETROAN, however, sees this as an attempt to suppress competitors and dominate the Nigerian market.
The rift began when Dangote Refinery claimed that complaints from marketers regarding its pricing were fueled by intentions to import cheaper, potentially substandard products.
In response, PETROAN strongly rejected these allegations, suggesting that Dangote’s claims are tactics designed to maintain a monopoly in the sector.
Joseph Obele, PETROAN’s spokesperson, stated that the association remains committed to importing high-quality products at more competitive rates to ensure affordability for Nigerian consumers.
According to PETROAN, competition in the market is essential for achieving fair pricing, and any attempt to stifle it would be detrimental to consumers.
They argue that Dangote Refinery’s pricing should reflect production costs and fair margins rather than international benchmarks, especially given concessions granted by the government for the refinery’s establishment.
PETROAN also announced its plans to partner with foreign refineries and financial backers to import premium-quality petroleum products at prices below current rates.
The association aims to enter the market by December 2024, pending necessary regulatory approvals.
“The allegations that PETROAN will import substandard products are unfounded and aimed at creating an unfair playing field,” the statement read.
PETROAN warned that similar claims in the past had led to significant price hikes when competitors were pushed out, emphasizing that the entry of new players into the market would lead to more competitive pricing and ultimately benefit Nigerian consumers.
PETROAN expressed appreciation for President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s state-owned refineries and urged the government to consider privatizing the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries once rehabilitation is complete.
The association believes a transparent privatization process will help strengthen Nigeria’s downstream sector and counter monopolistic tendencies.
To address the ongoing pricing challenges in the sector, PETROAN called on the government to convene a comprehensive meeting of industry stakeholders, including major associations like IPMAN, DAPPMAN, MEMAN, NUPENG, and PENGASSAN.
PETROAN believes that collaboration among these groups will be instrumental in establishing a sustainable and competitive pricing framework for petroleum products in Nigeria.
NEWS
Hardship: Let Us Intensify Prayers For Our Leaders – Sultan Of Sokoto Tells Nigerians
Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Mohammad Abubakar II, has called on Nigerians to avoid publicly criticizing their leaders, instead urging citizens to place their trust in God to address leadership concerns as He deems fit.
Speaking at the Regional Conference on Climate Change-Induced Conflicts in Northern Nigeria, organized by the Kaduna State Bureau of Interfaith in collaboration with International Alert, the Sultan emphasized faith and patience in navigating the country’s challenges.
READ ALSO: Gunmen Attack Police Facility In Owerrinta, Female Detainee Killed
Acknowledging Nigeria’s current economic and social hardships, the Sultan encouraged continuous prayer, not only for the nation but for its leaders as well.
“Even though many feel times are particularly hard, we believe relief will come. Let’s increase our prayers for our leaders, trusting God to address them in His way,” he said, expressing hope that divine intervention could bring stability and prosperity.
The Sultan reminded political leaders of their ultimate accountability to God, cautioning that they will stand alone on the Day of Resurrection, with only their deeds to support them.
“On that day, every leader will stand alone. Governors, advisers—none will have support except their own deeds. Let us act with a deep sense of responsibility and fear of God,” he stated.
Addressing religious leaders, he warned against misleading their followers for personal gain, underscoring the trust many place in their religious guidance.
“Only God can save any human being,” he said, encouraging Nigerians to remain faithful and discerning in their spiritual beliefs. “Focus on worshiping Allah and leave the rest to Him. Don’t follow those who might lead you astray.”
With leaders from various religious communities, including the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), in attendance, the Sultan called for unity, resilience, and communal effort to tackle pressing issues such as climate change, poverty, and insecurity in the northern region.
He praised the North’s history of unity and resilience, warning against divisive narratives that threaten communal harmony. “When we are united, we can face any challenge and build a prosperous community,” he asserted.
The Sultan’s remarks come amid ongoing social and environmental issues in the region, including a recent surge in climate-related challenges that have exacerbated poverty and security threats.
In light of these issues, he called on both Muslims and Christians to intensify their prayers, saying, “Our country faces many challenges, and we must turn to God in prayer. Let us intensify prayers in our mosques and churches.”
NEWS
#EndBadGovernance Protests: Tinubu Orders Release Of Detained Minors
In a decisive move, President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate release of all minors detained by police during the recent #EndBadGovernance protests.
The directive, announced by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris on Monday, underscores the government’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and ensuring justice.
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Idris confirmed that President Tinubu’s directive prioritizes the welfare of detained minors, instructing the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to facilitate their safe reunification with their families.
A committee led by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs will be established to oversee the welfare of the released minors and ensure compliance with the president’s orders.
Additionally, President Tinubu has directed a formal investigation into the actions of law enforcement agencies involved in the arrests.
The president emphasized that any misconduct uncovered during the investigation will result in disciplinary action, affirming his administration’s dedication to accountability within law enforcement.