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Police Disperse Protesters at Lekki Tollgate with Tear Gas

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Police Disperse Protesters at Lekki Tollgate with Tear Gas
Police Disperse Protesters at Lekki Tollgate with Tear Gas

Lagos experienced a tense morning on Thursday, August 1, 2024, as police tear-gassed protesters at Lekki Tollgate. These protesters, rallying under the #EndBadGovernance banner, refused to heed orders to relocate from the iconic tollgate to the Gani Fawehinmi Park and Peace Park.

Lekki tollgate

Protesters Gather at Lekki Tollgate

The Lekki Tollgate has become a powerful symbol for civil demonstrations, especially following the 2020 #EndSARS protests against police brutality. Early Thursday morning, the site was initially quiet.

However, by 11 am, protesters had gathered, bearing placards with messages of dissatisfaction towards the current administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Demonstrators expressed their grievances through chants and solidarity songs. Their primary concerns were the widespread hunger and hardship affecting the nation.

A female protester passionately voiced her concern, saying, “We just want the country to be stable. People are hungry. People are dying. We are not coming to fight; we only want the government to do something.”

Security Presence and Court Order

The government did not ignore the demonstrations. Numerous security personnel, including police officers, soldiers, members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and officials from the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency, were deployed at the tollgate.

They informed the protesters about a court order restricting their gathering to designated parks in Lagos mainland. Despite these warnings, the protesters, predominantly youths, remained defiant and refused to move, continuing their protest until police dispersed them with tear gas.

Nationwide Protests and Economic Hardship

The nationwide protests against economic hardship were propagated on social media, beginning on August 1, 2024, and are expected to continue until August 10.

These protests highlight the severe inflation and economic crises Nigerians are facing due to government policies such as the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of forex windows.

Security agencies, including the police, military, and Department of State Services, have warned against protests similar to those in Kenya.

Despite politicians urging the youth to reconsider their planned rallies, many young people remain determined to voice their demands for better governance.

Conclusion

The events at Lekki Tollgate are a clear indication of the growing dissatisfaction among Nigerians. As protests continue across the country, the call for change is becoming more urgent.

The government faces mounting pressure to address the economic challenges and ensure stability for its citizens.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on August 1, 2024 by news

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Only Nigerians with NIN Can Purchase ₦40,000/Bag Rice as FG Launches Food Sale

Only Nigerians with NIN Can Purchase ₦40,000/Bag Rice as FG Launches Food Sale

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Only Nigerians with NIN Can Purchase ₦40,000/Bag Rice as FG Launches Food Sale
Only Nigerians with NIN Can Purchase ₦40,000/Bag Rice as FG Launches Food Sale

The Nigerian Federal Government has introduced a new initiative to reduce food prices by selling rice at a subsidized rate. However, this opportunity is exclusively available to Nigerians with National Identification Numbers (NIN).

Government Launches Rice Sale to Control Food Prices

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the commencement of a significant rice sale, aimed at stabilizing the food market. Only Nigerians with valid NINs are eligible to purchase this subsidized rice.

The sale involves 30,000 metric tonnes of milled rice, priced at ₦40,000 per 50kg bag.

Purpose of the Rice Sale

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, emphasized that this move is designed to combat food price inflation and prevent racketeering.

Representing President Bola Tinubu, Kyari highlighted that the intervention will be strictly limited to “one bag per person,” ensuring equitable distribution.

Details of the Subsidized Rice Distribution

Kyari detailed that the rice is part of the federal government’s broader strategy to address the current food crisis. He urged citizens to support the initiative, noting that the sale aims to ease the burden of high food costs.

The government’s goal is to make a substantial impact by introducing this 30,000 metric tonnes of rice into the market.

Efforts to Mitigate Food Crisis

Kyari acknowledged the contributing factors to food price hikes, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and climate change.

The initiative is part of the government’s efforts to mitigate these challenges and ensure food security for all Nigerians.

Process for Purchasing Subsidized Rice

To purchase the rice, individuals must present their NIN and phone number at the point of sale. This process is designed to prevent fraud and ensure transparency.

The NIN will be logged into the system, generating a code and a Treasury receipt for the buyer.

Ensuring Fair Distribution

The government has implemented measures to guarantee that the rice reaches those in need. By restricting purchases to one bag per person and verifying identities, the initiative aims to avoid misuse and ensure that the benefits are widely distributed.

Conclusion and Future Expectations

The rice sale is expected to significantly reduce rice prices and benefit Nigerians across the country. The government encourages everyone to participate in this initiative, which is part of its broader commitment to enhancing food security.

FAQs

  1. Who can purchase the subsidized rice? Only Nigerians with a valid National Identification Number (NIN) can buy the rice.
  2. How much does the rice cost? Each 50kg bag of rice is priced at ₦40,000.
  3. What is the total quantity of rice available for sale? The Federal Government is selling 30,000 metric tonnes of rice.

References:

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 6, 2024 by news

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Onyinyechi Mark Breaks Paralympic Record: Nigeria’s First Gold Medal at Paris 2024

Onyinyechi Mark Breaks Paralympic Record: Nigeria’s First Gold Medal at Paris 2024

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Onyinyechi Mark Breaks Paralympic Record
Onyinyechi Mark Breaks Paralympic Record: Nigeria’s First Gold Medal at Paris 2024

Onyinyechi Mark Breaks Paralympic Record: Nigeria’s Onyinyechi Mark has made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games by breaking the world record in the women’s 61kg powerlifting category. She lifted an impressive 145kg, surpassing the previous record set by fellow Nigerian, Lucy Ejike.

This extraordinary achievement not only secured Nigeria’s first gold medal at these Games but also set a new world record. With one lift remaining, Mark is poised to extend her record further. Her closest rival is attempting a 138kg lift, while Mark aims for a final lift of 147kg to solidify her dominance.

Team Nigeria has long been a powerhouse in the Paralympics, particularly in powerlifting and athletics. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Nigeria won ten medals, including four golds. Athletes like Lucy Ejike and Bose Omolayo have previously set world records and claimed multiple gold medals. This ongoing success underscores Nigeria’s commitment to nurturing and supporting its para-athletes.

Onyinyechi Mark Breaks Paralympic Record: For more details about the 2024 Paralympics and Team Nigeria’s achievements, stay tuned.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 6, 2024 by news

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Paetongtarn Shinawatra Sworn In as Thailand’s New Prime Minister

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Sworn In as Thailand’s New Prime Minister

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Paetongtarn Shinawatra Sworn In as Thailand's New Prime Minister
Paetongtarn Shinawatra Sworn In as Thailand's New Prime Minister

On September 6, 2024, Thailand’s newest Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, took the oath of office, marking a significant moment in Thai politics. At 38, Paetongtarn, also known as “Ung Ing” and daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is now Thailand’s youngest leader.

This event concludes a month of political upheaval that led to her predecessor’s removal and the dissolution of the main opposition party.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at Government House, with King Maha Vajiralongkorn officiating around 6:15 p.m. (1115 GMT). Following the ceremony, Paetongtarn was seen greeting reporters and then departing in an official vehicle.

King Vajiralongkorn extended his congratulations to Paetongtarn’s new cabinet, emphasizing his confidence in their ability to excel in their roles.

The new cabinet, which Paetongtarn leads, has made history with a record number of eight women members, according to Thai PBS.

Paetongtarn succeeds Srettha Thavisin, who was ousted by the Constitutional Court in mid-August for appointing a cabinet member with a criminal record.

In related news, various incoming cabinet members, including Manaporn Charoensri and Supamas Isarabhakdi, arrived at Government House ahead of the official oath-taking ceremony.

Anutin Charnvirakul and Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn were also present, signaling the formation of a new government.

This transition underscores a pivotal shift in Thailand’s political landscape, with Paetongtarn Shinawatra stepping into a leadership role during a time of significant change.

For further details, see related coverage:


Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on September 6, 2024 by news

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