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  • Arewa Voters Assembly Warns Sowore Against October 20 Protest, Declares ‘Enough of His Rascality and Impunity’

    The Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) has warned activist Omoyele Sowore to desist from his planned protest scheduled for October 20, 2025, in Abuja, describing it as a dangerous plot to destabilize Nigeria’s peace, unity, and democracy.

    In a statement released today in Abuja and signed by its Convener, Comrade Ismail Ibrahim Bakori, the Assembly said it was “pertinently and vehemently speaking in unequivocal language to all enemies of the country who have overtly and surreptitiously been working to reverse the appreciable mileage that Nigerians have strenuously struggled to cover in entrenching democracy and representative governance in the country, especially the gains so far achieved by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.”

    “In tune with the mood of most rational and patriotic Nigerians, we are hereby warning Sowore that we can no longer put up with his serial acts of rascality that threaten the very foundation of the corporate existence of the country and his unguarded utterances and statements against state institutions and statesmen, very unbecoming of a child brought up from a good home with parents,” Bakori said. “Enough is enough.”

    According to the Assembly, “Omoyele Sowore is an unpatriotic quisling who has been masquerading in the guise of a ‘human rights and democracy activist.’ This posturing is a facade behind which he has been carrying out his treacherous and treasonable offences and actions against the Nigerian state and institutions for a few years now, masquerading under the so-called garb to blackmail and commit atrocious activities that are very inhuman.”

    The statement further alleged that, “Sowore is a hired destabilization agent in the service of foreign forces and interests that have been scheming over the years to disintegrate Nigeria by igniting the fire of ethnic, regional and religious conflagration and inclinations. They have found an ally in Sowore, who does not have the fear of God in him and is never patriotic to the cause and aspirations of the Nigerian state, and who will do anything to bring the country to its knees in order to satisfy his selfish, delusional behavior and character traits of a failed childhood not brought up from a good parentage and family life.”

    “Since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999, it has long become obvious to us in the Arewa Voters Assembly, and to discerning Nigerians and certainly to every patriotic observer, that several shadowy forces have been at work in efforts to scuttle the trajectory of our hard-won democracy, to which Sowore has lent his life and service as a traitor and fifth columnist of the first order and an enemy of the state,” Bakori added.

    The AVA further accused Sowore of being “provocative, vulgar, uncouth and lawless,” with “a habit of instigating violence, chaos, anarchy and conflicts between communities, parties, individuals and regions by always whipping up divisive sentiments along the nation’s fault lines.”

    “His latest antics, woven around the trial and detention of Nnamdi Kanu, vividly illustrate the character of Sowore as an opportunistic interloper and renegade spent force who goes on scavenging expeditions for the slightest chance and opportunity, however senseless, of plying his vocation of a rabble-rouser and an enemy of the Nigerian nationhood,” the statement continued.

    “It is obvious to us in the Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) that Sowore’s recent penchant for hauling disparaging verbal attacks, dissolute, crude and odious invectives at the administration and person of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a deliberate strategy aimed at arousing the disaffection of the citizens towards their democratically elected political leadership and to cast aspersions on our hard-fought democracy that is thriving in leaps and bounds to the detriment of the undertaker’s principals and sponsors, who are daily licking their wounds because Nigeria is indeed moving towards the right direction under the present dispensation.”

    The Assembly made several demands, including an end to what it described as Sowore’s “narcissistic and egocentric vituperations,” and called on the nation’s security agencies “to, as a matter of urgent national security exigency, go for the scum and threat to the nation in the person of Omoyele Sowore.”

    On the planned protest, Bakori declared:

    “The Arewa Voters Assembly is, for emphasis, vehemently and unequivocally reiterating its position that the Sowore’s planned so-called ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu’ protest slated for the 20th of October, 2025, in Abuja, WILL NOT HOLD! We are very emphatic because that will be his last!”

    He revealed that the Assembly has mobilized 60,000 of its members from across the country to converge on the Federal Capital Territory as a counterforce.

    “We will chase and hunt for any miscreants seen on that day on the streets of Abuja in the name of protest. It is our fervent prayer that Sowore will not test our resolve,” Bakori warned.

    The statement also addressed reports that protesters planned to disrupt business at Wuse Market, saying:

    “On the intelligence we got that architects of the so-called peaceful protest plan to disrupt business activities at the Wuse market, we have promptly called on our members at the market to link up with other traders to jointly come out to resist the anarchists.”

    Clarifying its position, the Assembly said it was not against Nnamdi Kanu’s person but insisted that his case must follow the rule of law.

    “The Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) wishes to make it very clear that its position on Sowore’s planned protest should not be misconstrued to mean that we are against the person of Nnamdi Kanu. As democrats, our position is based on our ardent belief in the principles of the rule of law. Neither VIOLENCE, BLACKMAIL NOR GRANDSTANDING should prevail in the resolution of conflicts and dialogue.”

    Bakori continued:

    “While we are also not averse to the suggestion from certain quarters for ‘a political solution’ to the situation, we insist however that justice, due process, equity and fair play should take precedence over sentiments.”

    “We insist that the freedom or otherwise of Nnamdi Kanu should follow due judicial process. Let him go through his trial that is now ongoing in the court of law and face the outcome at the end of the day.”

    “As much as we are not against justice for Kanu, we are also not unmindful of his violent activities, those of his lieutenants and foot soldiers that resulted in multitudes of deaths, various forms of physical disabilities and massive economic ruination in the Southeast. We believe that the victims of these wanton atrocities also deserve retribution and justice.”

    Bakori concluded with a reaffirmation of the Assembly’s loyalty to the unity and peace of Nigeria:

    “Long live one united, peaceful Nigeria. Long live democracy.”

  • Network of Peace & Security Condemns Sowore’s “Destructive Agenda”

    Network of Peace & Security Condemns Sowore’s “Destructive Agenda”

    The Network of Peace & Security, a coalition of concerned citizens committed to promoting national unity and progress, has strongly condemned what it described as the “atrocious and unpatriotic activities” of activist Omoyele Sowore, accusing him of attempting to destabilize Nigeria and undermine government efforts to deliver on its mandate to the people.

    In a statement issued in Abuja, Comrade Maduka Ogbonna, the National Convener of the Network of Peace & Security, described Sowore’s actions as “reckless, irresponsible, and a threat to national security.”

    “Sowore’s calls for violence and unrest are a clear attempt to disrupt the peace and stability of our nation, and we condemn them in the strongest terms possible,” Ogbonna said.

    The Network commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what it termed a strong commitment to upholding human rights and promoting the rule of law. According to Ogbonna, “The government has shown respect for human rights, and it is unfortunate that self-proclaimed human rights crusaders like Sowore are abusing this right to pursue their selfish interests.”

    He urged Nigerians to be wary of Sowore’s tactics and instead support the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to entrench peace, security, and development across the country.

    “The President Bola Tinubu Administration is focused on delivering dividends of democracy to the people, and we should support these efforts,” he added.

    The statement further called on security agencies to “immediately arrest” Sowore and ensure that anyone seeking to incite chaos or destabilize the country is brought to justice. The Network also alleged that Sowore is being sponsored by opposition political parties and accused him of being an “undertaker and serial blackmailer,” noting that his family resides abroad.

    The Network of Peace & Security reaffirmed its commitment to defending Nigeria’s stability and unity, warning against any attempts to exploit freedom of speech for destructive purposes.

  • NELMCO, CSOs Hold Strategic Engagement on Power Sector Reforms

    NELMCO, CSOs Hold Strategic Engagement on Power Sector Reforms

    • Stakeholders commend Dekalu Thomas’ leadership,

    • Reaffirms commitment to transparency, collaboration, and sustainable solutions to post-privatization challenges.

    The management of the Nigeria Electricity Liability Management Company (NELMCO) held the second edition of its annual Strategic Stakeholders’ Engagement with over 40 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), aimed at strengthening collaboration, promoting accountability, and advancing reforms in Nigeria’s power sector.

    The one-day engagement, held at the Stratton Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja on Tuesday, brought together the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NELMCO, Mrs. Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas, senior directors, special advisers, personal assistants, and representatives of civil society groups across the country. Themed “Establishing a National Power Assets Register for Nigeria’s Power Sector,” the meeting provided a platform for frank discussions on the way forward in addressing long-standing challenges in the electricity value chain.

    In her presentation, Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas emphasized that NELMCO remains central to the Federal Government’s efforts to tackle post-privatization debts and liquidity challenges that continue to impede growth in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). She noted that, in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, NELMCO has been entrusted with additional responsibilities to drive measurable progress and operational efficiency across the sector.

    Referencing the President’s March 7, 2024 statement affirming NELMCO’s pivotal role in ensuring expeditious and measurable progress in managing the power sector’s liabilities, Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas stated that while the task is complex, modalities have been developed to ease, if not completely eliminate, the financial burdens that have long constrained the industry.
    She reiterated her commitment to transparent and accountable leadership, stressing that the active participation of civil society remains crucial for ensuring public confidence and fairness in the reform process.

    Speaking on behalf of the CSOs, Comrade Ogakwu commended Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas for her visionary leadership and consistency in pursuing reform within the power sector. He noted that since her appointment, NELMCO has demonstrated resilience, innovation, and a renewed sense of direction, reflecting the spirit of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
    “Mrs. Dekalu-Thomas has shown exceptional leadership and dedication in tackling long-standing sectoral challenges. Her performance has inspired confidence among stakeholders, and we believe she deserves even greater responsibilities in the service of the nation,” Ogakwu remarked.

    The session concluded on an optimistic note, with participants agreeing that sustained collaboration between NELMCO and the CSO community will strengthen transparency, enhance data management through the proposed National Power Assets Register, and accelerate Nigeria’s journey toward a more stable and efficient power sector.

  • Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

    The Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN) has raised alarm over what it described as a dangerous campaign of division, blackmail, and anarchy being spearheaded by Omoyele Sowore and other paid agents of destabilization plotting to cause a breakdown of law and order in Nigeria.

    In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by Comrade Gbenga Ashiru Abiodun, National Coordinator of the Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN), and Comrade Yakubu Abdullahi, General Secretary of the group, the organization condemned in totality the ongoing attempts to incite crisis under the guise of protest and advocacy.

    The statement reads:

    “The ongoing campaign of division, blackmail, distraction, disharmony, and anarchy against the Nigerian government, especially the one being spearheaded by the so-called Omoleye Sowore, as well as by some paid characters and agents of destabilization trying to cause a breakdown of law and order in our country, is a cause for concern in our nascent democracy.

    This campaign of calumny, distraction, politics of hate, bitterness, and outrageous intent to precipitate crisis in our dear country must be resisted by democracy-loving Nigerians and forces.

    In memory of the late Comrade Abiodun Aremu of blessed memory, we have resolved not to participate in the planned protest being organized by a known blackmailer and insurrectionist, Sowore, using the name of Nnamdi Kanu as a cheap political cover to unleash mayhem and anarchist tendencies against state institutions, including the National Assembly, National Ecumenical Centre, National Mosque, security formations like Kuje prison, and the courts of the land.”

    The group further alleged that available intelligence revealed plots by Sowore and his associates to burn down major markets, train stations, airports, and other critical infrastructure in Abuja in a bid to precipitate violence and an ethno-religious crisis.

    “We have resolved to urgently alert relevant security and intelligence agencies to nip Sowore’s plot in the bud to curtail the planned insurrection and mayhem that may result from it. Enough is enough of this blackmailer’s shenanigans!” the statement continued.

    The group accused Sowore of lacking moral justification to lead any protest while facing prosecution, adding that his activities pose a serious threat to national peace and democratic stability.

    “In any civilized world, Sowore would have lost all moral justification to stage a violent protest while undergoing prosecution before relevant courts of competent jurisdiction for a series of incitement and questionable cybercrime-related cases in Nigeria.

    How can someone who is a known blackmailer in the country with no character or moral rectitude be threatening government institutions, state apparatus, and other law-abiding citizens going about their lawful businesses in a country guided by the rule of law?”

    They described him as “a serial rapist, a blackmailer, and a rogue politician” who, despite his rejection at the polls in 2023, continues to sponsor mischief and recklessness.

    “Sowore is also part of the system that has brought Nigeria to its knees, as he was instrumental in fighting on the side of politicians against the hardworking people all these years,” the statement added.

    The organization accused him of receiving funding from foreign powers and opposition elements, describing him as a “non-state actor used by anti-democratic forces to destabilize the country.”

    “We hereby wish to make it abundantly clear to the relevant security agencies and intelligence, especially the NSA, DSS, Nigeria Police, and DIA, to quickly intervene in this matter to prevent the breakdown of law and order,” it stated.

    The group vowed to institute a legal framework to restrain Sowore and his allies from further lawless behavior, while also mobilizing “thousands of democracy-loving Nigerians to confront him anywhere he is seen in Abuja.”

    “We hereby declare Sowore a persona non grata anywhere he is sighted in Abuja. We have assembled a team of citizen volunteers across ethnic and religious divides to enforce this resolution… Nigeria’s unity and peace are more important than the aspiration of one individual! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”

  • Dr. Mike Odere Bags National Ethical Leadership Award

    Dr. Mike Odere Bags National Ethical Leadership Award

    • Urges Youths to Embrace Integrity and Innovation
    • Calls for moral rebirth, digital skills, and ethical leadership at Abuja summit

    The Commissioner for Finance in Cross River State, Dr. Mike Odere, has been honoured with the National Ethical Leadership and Integrity Award in recognition of his exemplary service, accountability, and commitment to transparent governance.

    The award was presented by the Centre for Ethical Conduct Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) during the 2025 National Ethical Leadership Summit held at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja, with the theme “From Potential to Prosperity: Powering National Development through Ethical Leadership and Institutional Excellence.”

    In his acceptance speech, Dr. Odere expressed gratitude to Governor Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu for entrusting him with the opportunity to serve, describing the award as a collective recognition of the administration’s commitment to good governance and reform.

    “This recognition is not just about me. It represents a new wave of ethical consciousness in our public institutions. Integrity remains the foundation of sustainable progress, and I am deeply humbled by this honour,” he said.

    Dr. Odere also commended CECOE for its continued advocacy for ethics and governance, noting that such initiatives inspire public officers to remain resolute in upholding accountability and transparency.

    Turning his focus to young Nigerians, the Commissioner encouraged them to embrace innovation, technology, and discipline as tools for success. He stressed that success can be achieved within the country with the right mindset and skills.

    “You don’t need to japa to succeed. With the right skills in AI and technology, you can train yourself here in Nigeria, work remotely for international organizations, and earn in dollars. The world is now digital — opportunity belongs to those who innovate,” he said.

    Dr. Odere further emphasized the need to revive moral values and ethical discipline in society, lamenting the decline of traditional respect and the growing disregard for moral accountability.

    “We must return to our roots of morality. Respecting elders is a mark of good ethical conduct — we need their guidance. We must also be ethically conscious in our dealings because morality is part of our African culture,” he added.

    “Sadly, people no longer ask how youths make money; this should not be so. We must revive moral discipline and ethical responsibility in our society.”

    Presenting the award, CECOE’s National Coordinator, Dr. David Owah, described Dr. Odere as “a reform-driven technocrat whose leadership has inspired a culture of accountability and transparency within and beyond Cross River State.”

    He noted that the award was part of CECOE’s initiative to honour public officials whose actions reflect the values of ethical leadership and institutional credibility.

    The summit attracted policymakers, civil society groups, youth advocates, and development experts from across the country, all united in their call for a national moral renaissance anchored on ethics, innovation, and integrity.

  • AGEAD Urge Caution Over Minister Nnaji’s Certificate Allegations, Warn Against Political Witch-Hunt

    AGEAD Urge Caution Over Minister Nnaji’s Certificate Allegations, Warn Against Political Witch-Hunt

    • As coalition calls for fairness, restraint, and competence-based evaluation in public service appointments

    A coalition of civil society organizations under the banner of Advocacy for Good Ethics and Accountability for Development has cautioned against what it described as the politicization of the ongoing certificate forgery allegations leveled against the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the group’s Executive Director, Comrade Thomas Henry, clarified that the coalition was not out to defend the minister’s academic record but to demand fairness, objectivity, and restraint in public discourse.

    He expressed concern that the issue had taken a political dimension, pointing to the alleged rift between the minister and Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, as a possible underlying factor. According to him, “It is worrisome that the first official action of the new Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Professor Simon Ortuanya, was to revisit the long-standing allegation — a move that suggests a premeditated agenda.”

    Comrade Henry also drew parallels with past controversies, recalling the certificate saga involving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu before the 2023 elections, which was later resolved. He warned against allowing politically motivated narratives to mislead the public and cause irreparable reputational damage.

    The coalition further criticized Nigeria’s recruitment culture, which it said prioritizes paper qualifications over competence and proven experience. “Sacrificing competence for degrees has cost this nation dearly,” Henry said, urging Nigerians to instead assess public officers by their performance and impact.

    He highlighted the improved performance of several agencies under the Ministry of Science and Technology, including the National Board for Technology Incubation (NBTI), the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), and the Project Development Agency (PRODA), describing them as “more functional and innovative than ever.”

    The group also called on Premium Times and other media outlets to uphold journalistic ethics by ensuring balance and fairness in their reportage, warning against being used as tools for political blackmail.

    “We must not let politics overshadow merit. Our democracy must evolve beyond propaganda and personal vendetta,” Henry concluded.

  • CPTA Slams Politically Motivated Attacks on Minister Nnaji, Demands Probe of UNN VC

    CPTA Slams Politically Motivated Attacks on Minister Nnaji, Demands Probe of UNN VC

    • Accuses opposition figures of orchestrating a smear campaign
    • Urges media and public to uphold truth and fairness.

    The Center for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has condemned what it described as a politically motivated attempt to discredit the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, over renewed allegations concerning his academic credentials. The group said the recent report by Premium Times was part of a “desperate witch-hunt” by political opponents unsettled by the Minister’s rising profile and track record of performance.

    In a strongly worded statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Patrick Ogheneyero Jr., CPTA clarified that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), had in December 2023 officially confirmed Chief Nnaji’s graduation with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, Second Class (Lower Division). The organization described the emergence of a contrary letter in May 2025 as “suspicious,” especially given the alleged political affiliations of certain individuals recently appointed to leadership roles at the institution.

    CPTA also questioned the integrity of the current Vice Chancellor of UNN, alleging political interference and possible abuse of office. The group called for an immediate investigation into the VC’s academic background and political connections, stating that using the university to fight partisan battles violates academic ethics and undermines institutional credibility.

    The statement further criticized Premium Times for what CPTA termed “biased and unbalanced reporting,” accusing the platform of amplifying a politically motivated narrative without verifying facts. The group reminded the public that the matter is already before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice H.J. Yilwa has restrained UNN from tampering with the Minister’s records pending the determination of the case.

    Reaffirming its support for Chief Nnaji, CPTA described him as a visionary leader whose reforms have repositioned the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The group urged the media and the public to reject sensationalism and remain committed to truth, fairness, and accountability in the interest of national progress.

  • NYCN Launches Tinubu CARES, Empowers Traders as Nigeria Marks 65th Independence

    NYCN Launches Tinubu CARES, Empowers Traders as Nigeria Marks 65th Independence

    • …Rolls out entrepreneurship fund to boost small businesses
    • …..Distributes modern machines worth millions to artisans and traders

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) on Wednesday celebrated Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary with a blend of patriotic reflection and practical empowerment, unveiling the Tinubu CARES Initiative and the NYCN Entrepreneurship Development Fund as part of efforts to strengthen youth participation in national development.

    The event, held in Abuja, began with an address by NYCN President, Comrade (Amb.) Solomon Adodo, who paid tribute to the sacrifices that won Nigeria’s independence while urging young people to embrace their role in the country’s economic transformation. He said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had placed the youth at the centre of Nigeria’s future, stressing that the time had come for Nigerian youths to match government’s confidence in them with action, innovation, and enterprise.

    Adodo declared that the launch of the Tinubu CARES Initiative symbolised the President’s genuine concern for young Nigerians, not only in policy but in practical interventions that would improve livelihoods. He explained that alongside the initiative, the Entrepreneurship Development Fund was being introduced to give young business owners zero-interest financing, enabling them to translate ideas into thriving ventures. According to him, “From markets to garages, from streets to communities, we will carry this hope directly to the people.”

    To demonstrate this commitment, the Youth Council left the ceremonial ground and proceeded to the Area 1 Market in Abuja, where it engaged directly with traders and artisans. Weeks earlier, the Council had consulted with the market community to understand their most urgent needs. On Independence Day, those promises materialised as traders received state-of-the-art equipment, including modern shoemaking machines, industrial tailoring machines, and other business tools, with some items valued at over ₦600,000 each.

    The market empowerment exercise sparked jubilation, with beneficiaries describing the intervention as life-changing. A shoemaker who received one of the machines said it would allow him to take on more apprentices and increase his daily production. A female tailor, almost in tears, described the support as “the kind of empowerment that goes straight to the people, not to political godfathers.” Market leaders also hailed the Youth Council, noting that the initiative would raise productivity, improve household incomes, and inspire more young people to embrace vocational skills.

    Adodo, who personally handed over some of the equipment, reiterated that the interventions were part of a larger plan to ensure that Nigerian youths are not left behind in the country’s development drive. He also used the opportunity to commend President Tinubu for placing young people at the centre of his administration’s agenda, while acknowledging the National Assembly for creating legislative frameworks such as the establishment of Regional Development Commissions, which ensure no community or region is neglected.

    The Independence Day activities concluded with a colourful youth rally, where young Nigerians pledged unity, hard work, and commitment to building a nation where talent thrives and opportunities abound. For many at the event, the combination of patriotic reflection and direct empowerment made this year’s Independence celebration especially meaningful, as it highlighted how national promises could be translated into visible impact at the grassroots.

  • CBIAMEC Slams PENGASSAN, TUC Over “Hypocrisy” in Dangote Refinery Dispute

    CBIAMEC Slams PENGASSAN, TUC Over “Hypocrisy” in Dangote Refinery Dispute

    • ..Accuses unions of prioritising dues over workers’ welfare
    • …Warns against sabotage of national energy security

    The Civil Society Budget Implementation Assessment, Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC) has accused major labour unions of hypocrisy and selfish motives in their confrontation with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, warning that union actions pose a grave threat to Nigeria’s energy security and economic future.

    In a statement issued on October 1st, 2025, and signed by its Chairman, Amb. Agbonkpolor Splendour, CBIAMEC said while it recognises the constitutional rights of workers to organise, the current moves by PENGASSAN and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) amount to a “shameless weaponisation of union privileges for selfish financial gain.”

    The group criticised PENGASSAN’s swift demand for check-off dues within 24 hours of alleged unionisation at the refinery, describing it as proof that the unions’ focus lies on revenue rather than workers’ welfare.

    “Even more troubling is the hypocrisy of these same unions,” the statement read. “For decades, billions of dollars were wasted on turnaround maintenance of government-owned refineries that never worked. PENGASSAN and TUC never mobilised nationwide protests against that monumental corruption. Their silence speaks volumes of complicity.”

    CBIAMEC said attempts to “cripple the Dangote Refinery Africa’s most significant private sector investment through blackmail, misinformation and threats of sabotage” must be resisted, as the refinery symbolises hope, jobs and economic sovereignty for Nigeria’s over 230 million citizens.

    The committee further challenged PENGASSAN and TUC to publish their audited financial records for the past ten years, arguing that unions cannot demand accountability from others while hiding their own finances.

    “Dialogue, transparency and constructive engagement, not sabotage disguised as activism, should guide union relations with the refinery,” CBIAMEC concluded.

  • NUPENG-DANGOTE FEUD: A REBUTTAL TO ANTI-LABOUR TIRADE

    NUPENG-DANGOTE FEUD: A REBUTTAL TO ANTI-LABOUR TIRADE

    By Bayo Adeleke

    There is no doubt that the current crisis between Dangote Refinery and NUPENG is a battle for the fragile soul of Nigeria, especially in the oil and gas sector.

    Many reports , opinions, and write-ups have been going on in the media.

    However, a recent recent diatribe report in one of the online platforms titled, ‘The Coming Death of NUPENG,’ is not journalism, rather it is a poorly constructed hit piece, a symphony of slander orchestrated by the very corporate interests seeking to strip Nigerian workers of their fundamental human rights.

    In the report, rather than address the substantive issue such as the brazen anti-union crusade at the Dangote Refinery, the writer chooses to vomit a litany of unsubstantiated allegations, recycled propaganda, and fictional accounting. All designed to deflect from the real crime; the systemic suppression of worker representation by Africa’s richest man.

    The union is actively defending workers’ rights, insisting that employees must be free to organise and collectively bargain without coercion or restriction. Why should this be a problem

    Let us be unequivocally clear. The core issue the writer so conveniently ignores is the inalienable right of every worker to freedom of association and collective bargaining.

    This is not a NUPENG invention. It is a cornerstone of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and a fundamental human right recognized globally.

    The Dangote Refinery’s refusal to allow unionization is a direct attack on this right, creating an environment where workers can be and have been arbitrarily sacked for merely seeking a collective voice. The writer’s silence on this tyranny speaks volumes about his true patrons.

    The article is a masterclass in deception. He parades disgraced, former union officials like Lucky Osesua, Humble Obinna, and Dayyabu Garga—individuals facing serious criminal charges, including attempted murder, for their violent attempts to hijack a branch of the union—as “reformers.”

    This information can be readily confirmed through the charge sheet records of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Judicial Division, where the individuals in question are listed as defendants 1, 2, and 3 respectively.

    This is not a revelation of NUPENG’s flaws. Rather, it is a confession of the writer’s allegiance. These are the paid puppets of a conglomerate desperate to balkanize the workforce and impose a company-sponsored association, a classic union-busting tactic condemned by the ILO.

    The writer is not a voice for the drivers. Rather, he is a megaphone for a divide-and-rule strategy.
    The financial figures the writer and co concocts and bandy around are not just exaggerated; they are a fantasy, designed to incite public anger against the union instead of the real profiteers.

    His claim that NUPENG “slaps a tax” on every litre of fuel is arithmetical nonsense and a deliberate misrepresentation of logistics fees negotiated with stakeholders for union services

    Does the writer expect these vital services, advocacy, dispute resolution, welfare support, administration—to be run on charity? Unlike the opaque accounting of the corporations he defends, NUPENG operates within a structured framework. If the writer has evidence of financial malfeasance, let him present it to the authorities instead of hiding behind sensationalist journalism.

    For the records, there are numerous Trade Unions and Associations operating within the Petroleum depots, each with distinct roles and responsibilities toward their members.

    PTD-NUPENG commands significant influence and respect, an authority that, understandably, unsettles some people.

    For instance:
    1. PTD-NUPENG is a Trade Union whose members are employees of truck owners. These members pay union dues to NUPENG, and the funds collected are allocated to the following:
    • Quarterly safety training across all zones, conducted in collaboration with FRSC, Police, Fire Service, State VIO, and other traffic enforcement agencies. These trainings are essential and come at a considerable cost.
    • Health Insurance (HMO) coverage for tanker drivers. Since no employer provides health insurance for these drivers, who spend long hours transporting highly inflammable materials, NUPENG believes that a sick truck driver is an accident waiting to happen. To mitigate this risk, the Union partnered with Leadway Health Insurance to provide coverage for every petroleum tanker driver on the wheel.
    • Security funding for highways- The Union consistently mobilize security agencies to protect against truck hijackers, kidnappers, and criminal elements in certain communities. These services are not rendered for free.
    • Union dues – which support the administrative and operational functions of the union itself.

    2. The Association of Truck Owners also collects fees from its members, who are the actual owners of the trucks each time they load at the depots.

    3. Independent Marketers, represented by IPMAN, have employees who are also members of NUPENG. These employees pay union dues to NUPENG, while IPMAN members contribute dues to their own association.

    4. The Major Marketers Association similarly has employees who belong to NUPENG, alongside their own association members.

    The greatest insult, however, is the author’s pathetic portrayal of the tanker driver as a helpless victim of NUPENG. It is the exact opposite. Without NUPENG, the tanker driver is isolated, vulnerable, and at the mercy of multinational corporations and exploitative depot owners. It is NUPENG that fights for their safety on death-trap highways, it is NUPENG that negotiates their compensation, and it is NUPENG that gives them a collective power they would never have as individuals.

    The luxurious lifestyle author attributes to NUPENG leaders is a tired and desperate attempt to distract from the fact that it is profit driven capitalist like Dangote and his ilk who truly travel by private jet, built on the silent, un-unionized sweat of their employees.

    The threat to Nigeria’s economy does not come from a union fighting for its members’ rights. The threat comes from a corporate monopoly that believes its wealth places it above the law and beyond the rights of its workforce. The Dangote Refinery, a project of national importance, must not become a sweatshop where Nigerian labour rights go to die.

    NUPENG should not be intimidated by the various paid articles or the bullying tactics of a billionaire. Their mandate should be sacred to defend the Nigerian oil and gas worker. They should stand on the right side of history, on the side of human rights and dignity for labour which they were known for. The coming storm the write predicts is not for NUPENG, it is a gathering whirlwind of justice that will sweep away the anti-worker posture at Dangote and expose the hired pens who defend the indefensible.

    The truth and victory will surely emerge at the end.
    The struggle continues…