Gov Wike officially joins APC as he receives BAT and four APC governors in the Rivers State Executive Council chambers with his full cabinet present.
Today marked the end of all speculations by Nigerians and hypocritical denials by Governor Nyesom Wike of his current political standing as Wike play host to the APC presidential candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the council chamber of the Rivers State Government House with all members of the Rivers State executive council present.
This has not only justified the consistent position of the Rivers state Presidential campaigns council that Governor Wike who has wholly engaged himself in anti party activities , has criminalized the mandate of the People’s Democratic Party who offered him the platform upon which he was elected governor.
The utterances of Governor Wike in time past against President Buhari’s policies and poor performance in governance and the manner in which the Governor vilified and spoke despicably about Bola Ahmed Tinubu for telling Nigerians that he wants to continue Buhari’s legacy of good works, is diagnostic that he has no single strand of integrity and credibility left in him for turning around not just to embrace but to consummate his marriage to a party he described as Cancer.
The show of shame is seen to have been ignorantly celebrated by his minions who are all soon to become internally displaced politicians if they don’t return to good reasoning.
The people of Rivers state would have benefited more if the Five hundred million Naira that was disbursed for the failed mobilization of people to the APC presidential rally was voted into SMEs for wealth and job creation for the surging population of unemployed youths. Or for the payments of retirees benefits and gratuity.
It’s now obvious why Governor Wike ran to the courts to seek judicial asylum knowing he was about playing his highly predictable last game of desecrating the mandate of The People’s Democratic Party . Governor Wike as a lawyer should know that you can not suspend the hands of justice in perpetuity while you continue to break all known laws that govern a system.
The day of reckoning is here. The leadership of the party must act to save what is left of the PDP in Rivers State.
Some desperate politicians in Kogi State have been accused of plotting to manipulate the Bimodal Voter Registration System (BVAS) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the 2023 general elections.
The scheme is reportedly spearheaded by All Progressives Congress (APC) party leaders in the twenty-one local government areas and wards of the state. The various leaders across the 239 wards are said to be field officers who either purchase PVCs directly from some compromised INEC staff charged with the responsibility of distributing the PVCs to the owners, buy off the PVCs from willing electorates impoverished by the prevailing economic hardship, or copy the PVC numbers of some individuals who have not yet decided to mortgage their franchise.
This group’s account information is collected with the promise that their accounts will be credited upon providing proof of voting for the specified party at the polls.
While INEC, through its commissioner in charge of publicity and voter education, has consistently assured Nigerians that the BVAS machine is a foolproof solution to electoral manipulation, this newspaper has learned that there is a possibility of fraud in unwary areas, which sources say are being exploited in collaboration with some alleged rogue commission employees.
During an appearance on Channels TV, Okoye described the alleged plans of politicians to manipulate the 2023 general elections as futile, arguing that “the BVAS will be used for the accreditation and authentication of voters in 2023, and it will reject biometric data of persons who are not the original owners of the traded PVCs.” He did not, however, address the issue of using the number to accredit voters if the biometrics system is unable to verify the voter, given that the BVAs is said to contain the details of all potential voters per polling unit.
Contrary to the national commissioner’s assertion, however, available information reveals that some agents of the party have made arrangements to pre-load the BVAS with already accredited voters and programmed results in their favour.
It is rumoured that they would preload the spare BVAS machines that they hope to deploy midway through the voting process, citing a malfunction in the one in use at the time to throw opposition party agents off guard.
According to inside sources, allegations of attempts to manipulate the two fundamental tools for the upcoming general elections, the BVAS and the PVCs, are constantly being raised, but it is impossible without the active connivance of INEC, particularly the ICT department. The primary target of their arrangement is the polling unit, where non-state actors serve as security personnel and multiple BVASs have been provided.
“Another secret plan of this group of election riggers is to allow multiple voting in areas with multiple polling places. In other words, a voter who casts a ballot at one voting location will have the option to vote at another location because all voting locations within the same polling unit are configured and uploaded with the total number of registered voters. The primary LGAs targeted by this arrangement are those in Kogi Central, Kabba-Bunu, Lokoja, Olamaboro, Ankpa Dekina, Ofu, and Ibaji, according to a source.
“INEC must speak out immediately to allay the fears of the people and ensure a psychologically stable electoral environment for trouble-free elections.”
The source continued, “Therefore, the electoral commission must move to protect its beautiful innovations and ensure strict compliance with the new electoral act’s regulations and provisions. “Security personnel must intervene to thwart this evil scheme.”
Soldiers set Ogun Police Station Ablaze in Retaliatory attack
On Wednesday, men wearing Nigerian Army uniforms attacked the Ogijo police station in Ogun State in response to an alleged assault on a soldier by some police officers.
At the conclusion of the assault, the “soldiers” who had stormed the station without name tags set fire to it.
During the attack, numerous people, including a few police officers, were injured.
Throughout the duration of the attack, the area was filled with panicking bystanders fleeing for safety.
According to a source, the soldiers from 174 Battalion Odugunyan in Ikorodu, Lagos, were seeking revenge for an earlier altercation between a police officer and a soldier.
During the altercation, the police officer allegedly stabbed the soldier in the chest with a knife.
According to reports, the soldiers were angered by the actions of the police officer who later sought refuge at the Ogijo police station.
“Our station is under heavy attack by soldiers from the 174th Battalion Odogunyan of the Nigerian Army.” They have set fire to the station following a dispute between a mobile police officer and a soldier.
In fact, a soldier and a mobile police officer engaged in physical combat Prior to the burning of the police station, with the mobile police officer ultimately defeating the soldier with a leather punch, according to a source.
It remains unclear whether police officers were attacked, injured, or killed during the station assault.
On his official Twitter account, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, responded to questions about the attack. “We would like to clarify that the unrest is located in Ogijo, Ogun State, despite its proximity to Ikorodu, Lagos.”
“Our officers are on high alert and will not tolerate a breakdown of law and order in Lagos State*.”
The military has not yet responded to this report.
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In a statement issued on Thursday by the 81 Division Nigerian Army’s Deputy Director of Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, the victim was identified as a soldier who allegedly confronted the suspect, a policeman who was not in proper uniform and was standing too close to an Operation MESA patrol vehicle, to confirm his identity.
According to reports, this resulted in an argument that escalated into an unfortunate occurrence.
The soldier was rushed immediately to the Lagos State Polytechnic Hospital in Odogunyan, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The deceased’s remains have been moved to the 174 Battalion Medical Centre in Ikorodu, according to the army spokesman.
The suspect was apprehended and placed in military custody for his protection before being transferred to the Nigerian police for prosecution.
Ayeni reassured the community that the situation was under control and that normalcy had been restored. As the Nigerian Army and other security agencies are committed to ensuring everyone’s safety and security, he urged citizens to remain calm and not take the law into their own hands.
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Full details as NECO releases 2022 SSCE result. See how to check your NECO 2022 result here.
The National Examinations Council, NECO, has announced the release of the Senior School Certificate Examination, SSCE, results for November/December 2022.
Prof. Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, Registrar of NECO, made the announcement in Minna, Niger State, on Thursday. He stated that 59,124 candidates sat for the exam, with 31,316 males representing 52.96 percent and 27,808 females representing 47.03 percent.
Wushishi added that 58,012 candidates sat for the English Language examination, of which 44,162 (76.13 percent) received a credit or higher, while 57,700 candidates sat for the mathematics examination, of which 43,096 (74.69 percent) received a credit or higher.
In addition, he disclosed that 33,914 candidates, or 57.36 percent, earned at least five credits, including English Language and mathematics.
“In addition, 46,825 candidates, 79.20%, received five (5) credits or higher regardless of English Language and mathematics,” he said.
NECO results 2022.
On the issue of examination malpractice, he stated that 11,419 candidates were booked for various forms of malpractice, compared to 4,454 in 2021, indicating a significant increase in the number of cases.
According to him, this is largely attributable to the monitoring officers’ improved strategy and methods.
“This resulted in the blacklisting of four (4) supervisors, one (1) each from the states of Rivers and Plateau and two (2) from the state of Ogun for aiding and abetting and poor supervision,” he said.
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Naira Swap: I want to minimize the use of money during election – Buhari makes confession
Buhari extended the only old N200 notes to be circulated till April 10 and remains legal tender.
President Muhammadu Buhari has admitted that part of his plan for approving the redesign of the Naira notes is to minimize the use of the money during the political season.
The President said the new monetary policy will contribute immensely to the minimization of the influence of money in politics.
Buhari disclosed this on Thursday morning during a nationwide broadcast.
According to him, Nigerians should go out and vote for their preferred candidate during the February 25 elections.
“Fellow citizens, on the 25th of February, 2023 the nation would be electing a new President and National Assembly members.
“I am aware that this new monetary policy has also contributed immensely to the minimization of the influence of money in politics.
“This is a positive departure from the past and represents a bold legacy step by this administration, towards laying a strong foundation for free and fair elections,” Buhari said.
Buhari also extended the only old N200 notes to be circulated till April 10 and remains legal tender.
He ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) that the old N200 bank notes, which will remain legal tender with the newly re-designed N200, N500, and N1,000 notes until April 10, 2023.
The President said this in reaction to the escalating cash scarcity in the nation as a result of the redesigning of the N200, N500, and N1,000 notes and the nationwide uproar which had attended the cash scarcity.
He assured the CBN would continue to ensure the new notes are released into the system for citizens to have access to them as the administration continues to monitor the success of the policy to ensure Nigerians are not unnecessarily suffering.
Speaking on the reason for the current hardship experienced as a result of the policy, the President noted the situation had been occasioned by the activities of those he described as unscrupulous banking operators and expressed sympathies with citizens for the hardship so far faced.
“To further ease the supply pressures, particularly to our citizens, I have given approval to the CBN that the old N200 bank notes be released back into circulation and that it should also be allowed to circulate as legal tender with the new N200, N500, and N1000 banknotes for 60 days from February 10, 2023, to April 10, 2023, when the old N200 notes cease to be legal tender.
“In line with Section 20(3) of the CBN Act 2007, all existing old N1000 and N500 notes remain redeemable at the CBN and designated points.
“Considering the health of our economy and the legacy we must bequeath to the next administration and future generations of Nigerians, I admonish every citizen to strive harder to make their deposits by taking advantage of the platforms and windows being provided by the CBN,” he said.
A northern governor has alleged that Emefiele and the EFCC Chairman, Bawa are plotting to scuttle Tinubu’s chances, Ejesgist News reports
Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdullahi Bawa, plotting to scuttle the chances of the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Kogi State government disclosed this on Wednesday, accusing Emefiele, and Bawa, of working to scuttle the chances of Tinubu on February 25 presidential election.
Speaking with reporters in Ilorin, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, said the duo in collaboration with ‘certain forces’ were working to provoke Nigerians with draconian and antipeople’s policies that would spike insurrection and civil disobedience against Tinubu and APC.
He called on President Muhammadu Buhari to call Bawa and Emefiele to order before “they throw the country into a huge crisis with their disdain for the rule of law”.
The commissioner described the recent declaration by EFCC that Governor Yahaya Bello’s wife, Rashida, is on the run as a result of alleged financial malfeasance, as untrue and hogwash.
He said:
“…the governors that went to court were tagged to have ‘shifted allegiance from the president to someone who is yet to become president’, with severe attacks on the Governor of Kogi State and the haste at using the media to convict and condemn him when no law court has found him guilty.
“We are not unaware of a high-level conspiracy to gag more voices on the side of the party in power.
“But we shall continue to fight injustice and discrimination across the country. Bawa and Emefiele cannot stop the political victory ahead.”
Recall that the EFCC has charged Rashida; a nephew of the Kogi governor, Ali Bello, and three others before a Federal High Court, Abuja with alleged N3bn fraud.
Tinubu Best Character To Be President, I Owe Nobody Apology – Nyesom Wike
Nyesom Wike, the governor of Rivers State, has asserted that Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, possesses the most integrity and bravery to lead Nigeria.
Wike spoke in Port Harcourt, the capital of the state, while receiving Tinubu yesterday, shortly after the APC candidate’s campaign rally in the state.
The governor wished Tinubu success in his bid for the presidency and stated that he owes no one an apology.
Wike also dissuaded Tinubu from contributing to the APC governorship campaign in the State.
He insisted that the APC candidate for governor in the state, Tonye Cole, had no chance against his preferred People’s Democratic Party, PDP, candidate, Siminaliayi Fubura.
President Buhari’s address to Nigerians on Naira Crisis
My Dear Countrymen,
I deem it necessary to address you today on the state of the nation and to report on the efforts of our administration to sustain and strengthen our economy, intensify the fight against corruption, and preserve our gains in the fight against terrorism and insecurity, which have undoubtedly been impacted by a number of internal and external factors.
2. Particularly, I am addressing you as your democratically elected President in order to identify with you and express my sympathy for the difficulties being encountered as we continue implementing new monetary policies intended to stimulate our economy and close loopholes associated with money laundering.
3. Permit me to reassure Nigerians once again that strengthening our economy, enhancing security, and preventing leakages associated with illicit financial flows remain our administration’s highest priorities. And I will always remain committed to my oath to protect and advance the Nigerian people and the nation’s interests.
4. I authorized the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to redesign the N200, N500, and N1000 banknotes in the fourth quarter of 2022.
5. For a smooth transition, I also approved that the redesigned banknotes circulate concurrently with the old banknotes until January 31, 2023, when the old banknotes will no longer be legal tender.
6. In recognition of the systemic and human challenges encountered during implementation, and in response to the requests of all citizens, a ten-day extension was granted until February 10, 2023, to complete the process. All of these activities are being conducted in accordance with the Constitution, the pertinent provisions of the CBN Act of 2007, and international best practices.
7. In addition to requesting your patience and understanding during this transitional phase of implementation, I feel obligated to share with you a few key considerations underlying the policy decision. These consist of:
a. The necessity of restoring the CBN’s legal authority to maintain firm control over money in circulation. When this administration began its first term in 2015, the amount of currency in circulation was only N1.4trillion.
b. The percentage of currency held outside of banks increased from 78% in 2015 to 85% in 2022. As of October 2022, therefore, the amount of currency in circulation had risen to N3.23 trillion, of which only N500 billion was within the Banking System and N2.7 trillion remained permanently outside the system, thereby distorting the financial policy and preventing the effective management of inflation.
c. The vast quantity of Bank Notes outside of the banking system has proven to be practically unavailable for economic activities, thereby retarding the achievement of potential economic growth.
d. Projections of economic growth make it imperative for the government to expand financial inclusion in the country by reducing the number of unbanked individuals; and
e. The Nigerian government is compelled to increase its support for security agencies in order to effectively combat banditry and kidnapping in light of the continuously improving national security situation.
8. Despite initial setbacks, the evaluation and feedback mechanism established has revealed that the policy initiative has yielded positive results.
9. Since the beginning of this program, approximately N2.1 trillion in banknotes previously held outside of the banking system have been successfully retrieved, according to reliable sources.
10. This represents approximately 80% of these funds. In the short- to medium- and long-term, it is therefore anticipated that:
a. An improvement in our macroeconomic parameters;
b. Reduction of the broad money supply should result in a slowing of the velocity of money in the economy, which should alleviate domestic price pressures.
c. As a result of the accompanying decline in money supply, inflation will decline, slowing its rate.
d. Collapse of Illegal Economic Activities, which would aid in preventing corruption and money acquisition through illegal means;
e. Stability of the Exchange Rate
f. The availability of simple loans and the reduction of interest rates;
g. Greater visibility and transparency of our financial transactions will result in effective enforcement of anti-money laundering laws.
11. I am aware of the obstacles placed in the way of innocent Nigerians by unscrupulous banking industry officials tasked with the implementation of the new monetary policy. I am deeply distressed and sympathize with you all over these unintended consequences.
12. To stem this tide, I have instructed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to employ all legitimate resources and legal means to ensure that our citizens are adequately educated on the policy, have easy access to cash withdrawals and can make deposits.
13. I have also instructed the CBN to increase its collaboration with anti-corruption agencies in order to ensure that any institution or individual found to have impeded or sabotaged the implementation will face the full force of the law.
14. During the extended phase of the deadline for currency exchange, I received invaluable advice from well-intentioned citizens and institutions.
15. I also consulted extensively with representatives of the State Governors and the State Council. Moreover, as a representative of an administration that respects the rule of law, I have taken note of the fact that the issue is currently before the courts of our nation and that some rulings have already been made.
16. I have authorized the CBN to release the old N200 banknotes back into circulation and allow them to circulate as legal tender alongside the new N200, N500, and N1000 banknotes for a period of 60 days, from February 10, 2023 to April 10, 2023, when the old N200 banknotes will cease to be legal tender.
17. In accordance with Section 20(3) of the CBN Act of 2007, all old N1000 and N500 notes are still redeemable at the CBN and designated locations.
18. Considering the state of our economy and the legacy we must leave for the next administration and future generations of Nigerians, I urge every citizen to make greater efforts to make deposits by utilizing the CBN’s platforms and windows.
19. Permit me to assure Nigerians that our administration will continue to evaluate the implementation to ensure that Nigerians are not overburdened. In this regard, the CBN will increase the availability and accessibility of new banknotes to our citizens via the banking system.
20. I would like to reiterate my request for your patience until we overcome this difficult temporary phase as soon as possible.
21. On February 25, 2023, citizens would vote for a new president and members of the National Assembly. I am aware that this new monetary policy has significantly contributed to the diminution of money’s influence in politics.
22. This is a positive departure from the past and an audacious step by this administration’s legacy towards establishing a solid foundation for free and fair elections.
23. I therefore urge every citizen to vote for their preferred candidates without fear, as security will be provided and your vote will count.
24. However, I urge you to avoid violence and actions that could disrupt the electoral processes. I wish everyone success in the upcoming elections.
Thank you for your attention. God bless the Nigerian Federal Republic.
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Buhari finally extends validity of old N200 notes till April 10
President Muhammadu Buhari has announced the extension of the validity of old N200 notes until April 10.
Announcing the development in a televised nationwide address on Thursday, the president said all existing old N1000 and N500 notes remain redeemable at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and designated points.
“To further ease the supply pressures, particularly to our citizens, I have given approval to the CBN that the old N200 bank notes be released back into circulation and that it should also be allowed to circulate as legal tender with the new N200, N500, and N1000 banknotes for 60 days from February 10, 2023 to April 10 2023 when the old N200 notes ceases to be legal tender,” the president said.
Tuesday, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Leena Pylvanainen, in response to threats made by Biafra activist Simon Ekpa to halt the 2023 general election in Nigeria’s south-east.
Mr. Ekpa, a faction leader of the outlawed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), has repeatedly issued sit-at-home orders throughout the South-east and insisted that there will be no election in the region in 2023.
The IPOB activist recently announced a stay-at-home campaign from February 23 to February 28, ostensibly to halt the 2023 general elections in the region.
The presidential election is scheduled for February 25.
He stated that the sit-at-home orders and the cancellation of the 2023 elections in the region would aid his faction of the IPOB in establishing a sovereign state of Biafra for Igbo-speaking Nigerians in the south-east and south-south of the country.
According to a report by Business Day, Nigeria’s minister of foreign affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, met with the Finnish ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs. Pylvanainen, to discuss the threats made by the IPOB faction leader, Simon Ekpa.
Mr. Onyeama expressed displeasure at the meeting over the recent sit-at-home orders issued by Mr. Ekpa to his numerous followers, who, according to him, subsequently engaged in killings, maimings, and other destructive activities.
Mr. Onyeama, who was represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zubairu Dada, stated that Mr. Ekpa’s actions were quickly becoming a threat to the upcoming election, and that the Nigerian government would not “take it lightly” if nothing “dramatic” was done about his threats.
Mr. Onyeama stated, “We thought it was important to have this conversation with you to let you know that he is living in the comfort of his home in Finland and that we have been in contact with you.”
“We’ve had some time to ensure that this situation is brought under control, but it appears that things are getting out of hand. And we’ve reached the point of no return. “We should let you know in no uncertain terms that it’s high time you truly meant and supported Nigeria with the demand that immediate action be taken because he threatens the upcoming election,” he added.
The foreign affairs minister lamented the fact that the IPOB faction leader, Simon Ekpa has a massive social media following.
“It is vital that everyone is aware that the 2023 elections are in jeopardy due to someone’s actions and that immediate action is required to remedy the situation. The minister told Mrs. Pylvanainen, “This is essentially why we felt it was important to have this discussion with you: to convey our concerns and the displeasure of the government and people of Nigeria over this very unhealthy development.”
Nigerian Newspapers Headlines Today, Nigeria News Today, Headlines, Newsonline Nigeria, News Headlines in Nigeria Today, Top Naija News, the Nigerian latest news, latest Nigerian news papers Today read them all.
Very good morning to you and welcome to our curated top Naija headline News today from Nigerian Newspapers today February 16, 2023.
What are the Nigerian newspapers headlines today saying?
Kebbi Gov Approves N1.1bn Palliative To Cushion Currency, Fuel Scarcity
On Wednesday, the Kebbi State Government approved the distribution of N1.1 billion to residents in an effort to mitigate the effects of currency and fuel shortages in the state.
The announcement was made by Alhaji Babale Umar-Yauri, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), in a statement made available to Newsmen in Birnin Kebbi.
1) On Wednesday, protesting Youths in Edo and Delta States torched banks and destroyed automated teller machines, adding a new dimension to the escalating outrage over the cash shortage caused by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s currency redesign policy. The violent protest resulted in three deaths and numerous injuries.
2) On Wednesday, the Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, disclosed that the Federal Government had made overtures to governors, requesting the withdrawal of the Supreme Court suit challenging the expiration of the old naira notes. However, he stated that the proposal was rejected because the governors disagreed with the terms proposed by the FG.
3) Thursday at 7:00 a.m., President Muhammadu Buhari will make a national broadcast to Nigerians. This was disclosed in a press release issued by Femi Adesina, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, late on Wednesday. Read More
4) Dozens of angry cash depositors blocked access to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) office in Garki, Abuja, on Wednesday. Customers who had been instructed by the central bank to deposit their old naira notes at the CBN office prevented staff and visitors from entering the building.
5) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, presidential candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC), visited Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, following his campaign in Rivers. He met with the governor of the state, Nyesom Wike, behind closed doors. Read More
6) Muhammadu Sanusi II visited the state for the first time since being deposed as the emir of Kano. On his way to Dutse, the capital of Jigawa State, where he is expected to pay a condolence visit to the emirate following the recent death of its emir, Late Nuhu Muhammad Sanusi, Sanusi reportedly stopped in Kano to greet his mother.
7) The headline inflation rate in Nigeria increased to 21.82 percent in January 2023, after falling to 21.34 percent in December 2022. The decrease and increase in inflation during the two months was a result of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s redesigned naira policy, which it claimed would, among other things, reduce inflation.
8) Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), stated that he and his running mate, Datti Yusuf, were the first candidates born after Nigeria’s independence to run for president and vice president, as the two other leading candidates were born during the colonial era.
Nigerian Newspapers –Newsonline Nigeria
9) The United Nations (UN) has stated that it is closely monitoring Nigeria’s crucial general elections this year, in which the country will elect a new president, National Assembly members, governors, and House of Representatives. Mr. Matthias Schmale, UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, disclosed this in an interview with journalists yesterday in Ibadan.
10) On Tuesday, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Leena Pylvanainen, in response to threats by Biafra activist Simon Ekpa to halt the 2023 general election in Nigeria’s South-East. Mr. Ekpa, a faction leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has repeatedly stated that the region will not hold elections in 2023.
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So many Nigerians prefer to exchange their foreign currencies especially the US Dollars to naira using the black market because the exchange rate is very high compared to what the bank offers. If you want to know the current black market rate, here is the page to find that.
Aboki fx Black Market Dollar To Naira Exchange Rate Today has also been added here so you can easily verify each of the rate for the currencies you want to exchange in the parallel markets. Aboki fx is the most trusted source for Black Market Dollar To Naira Exchange Rate Today. You can find their exchange rate for today here.
This is according to information obtained by Ejes Gist Dollar from black market traders and Aboki dollar to Naira exchange Operators.
Dollar to Naira Black Market today 16th February 2023
Dollar to Naira today black market (USD to NGN)
USD to naira black market today
Buying Rate
750
Selling Rate
753
What is the current Black Market Dollar To Naira Exchange Rate Today or the parallel market? Well, it may interest you to know that Dollar to Naira Black Market Exchange rate for today sometimes varies hugely from the rate in Central Bank of Nigeria website (www.cbn.gov.ng).
The price listed above is the current USD to Naira exchange rate. We will always update the latest rate on a daily basis to keep you informed. Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate is the current exchange equivalent of the United States Dollar. Rate varies for various banks and parallel markets.
How Much is Dollar to Naira Official Exchange Rate Today
Parallel exchange rate (black market) exchange rate is always different from CBN rate. Currently, Naira is trading at 452 Naira Per Dollar. The Nigerian Economy is drastically affected by the Dollar to Naira Black Market Exchange rate.
Dollar to Naira (USD to NGN)
Official Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate Today
Buying Rate
449
Selling Rate
452
Dollar to Naira Bank rate today.
Banks in Nigeria sell dollars between 545 to 570 to a dollar.
Graphic of Dollars and Nairas
As Naira is falling, inflation takes over the economy which usually affects the citizens. Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele has said that the Nigerian Economy needs a massive turnaround and has urged Nigerians to work towards it.
The black market commonly referred to as Aboki market rate for dollars is usually higher than the exchange rate at the banks which is usually regulated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The CBN Exchange rate is the rate you can buy or sell dollars for naira listed on CBN website cbn.gov.ng. while dollar to naira black market rate are from aboki fx exchangers.
However, USD to Naira bank rate is the rate you use when purchasing something from foreign websites using your Naira Mastercard or Debit card from Nigerian Banks. These rate normally would always be lower than what is obtainable in the black market.
Interesting things you didn’t know about the U.S. dollar
You know that our money is the United States dollar. Did you know…
-There are three parts to a dollar: the penny, the nickel, and the dime. There are 100 cents in a dollar.
-The first dollar was made in 1792. It was used in the colonies instead of the Spanish dollar, which was used before.
-The dollar is the currency that is traded the most around the world.
-The dollar is also the currency that is most often faked around the world.
The US Dollar: A Brief History
Did you know that the history of the US dollar is pretty interesting? It was made when the Coinage Act was passed by the US government in 1792. This law made the US dollar the official currency of the country.
Since then, there have been a few changes to the dollar. For example, in 1854, the US stopped using Spanish coins and started using American ones. And in 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt took the US off the gold standard. This meant that the dollar could no longer be traded for gold.
The US dollar is one of the most popular currencies in the world right now. Over 60% of all transactions between countries take place in US dollars. So the next time you spend your vacation dollars in a foreign country, you can be sure that you are using a currency that has been around for a while!
Who Maintains the Production of US Currency?
The United States Mint is responsible for producing US dollar paper currency. It is a government agency that falls under the Treasury Department. They are responsible for producing both paper currency and coins.
Interestingly, each bill and coin’s design is determined by the president. The Mint then creates a prototype and submits it for approval to the Treasury. It is then put into production. Therefore, each bill and coin in circulation has been authorised by the president, which is why they often bear his or her image.
What are the Facts Influencing the Dollar to Naira Black Market Exchange rate for today ?
Here are some of the reasons for the dollar-to-naira exchange rate’s decline.
Inflation Rates: It is common knowledge that inflation has a direct impact on black market exchange rates. The naira will benefit if the Nigerian economy can be stabilised and inflation is brought under control; however, if the naira continues to fall, it may indicate that food and other necessities are becoming more expensive on a daily basis.
Interest Rates: Interest rates are another tool to keep an eye on. If the interest rate at which banks lend money rises, the economy will contract, and the value of the naira will fall as a result.
Government debt has the potential to affect investor confidence and, as a result, the flow of funds into the economy. If inflows are high, the naira exchange rate will rise in its favour.
Speculators: Speculators have a significant impact on the Dollar to Naira Black Market Exchange rate for today . They hoard money in anticipation of a profit, causing the naira to fall even further.
Trade Conditions: Although Nigeria is currently running a trade deficit, favourable trade terms will lead to an increase in the value of the Nigerian currency to the dollar. China, India, and the majority of Asian countries supply everything.
Losses in Japaul Gold, Sovereign Insurance slow Nigeria’s capital market growth
Following a drop in demand for Japaul Gold, Sovereign Insurance, and other shares on Wednesday, the market capitalization of the Nigerian capital market increased by 0.04 percent.
After eight hours of trading today, the market capitalization increased by N13.94 billion, from N29.67 trillion to N29.68 trillion.
Similarly, the All-Share Index rose by 25.59 basis points to finish the day at 54,507.66 ASI, up from 54,482.07 on Tuesday.
The Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, will address Nigerians nationally. On Thursday, February 16, 2023, at 7:00 a.m.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by Femi Adesina, the president’s special adviser for media and publicity.
Pay Attention to the Benin City Protest: Three people are feared dead as security forces foil an attack on the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Ejes Gist News reports that television stations, radio stations, and other electronic media outlets are required to connect to the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority and Radio Nigeria for the broadcast, according to the statement.
Governor Nasir El-Rufai insisted on the complete cancellation of the CBN policy.
As others seek for extension of old naira note.
The Ejes Gist News has learned that President Muhammadu Buhari is considering extending the validity of old naira notes by 60 days.
This is to avoid disobeying the order of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which ruled that the old N1,000, N500, and N200 notes remain valid until the court renders a decision in the case brought against the federal government by several states.
The CBN had insisted that the deadline of February 10 would not be extended, but a senior government official told newsmen that Buhari was concerned about the hardships faced by Nigerians and the legal ramifications of disobeying the supreme court order.
The official told newsmen that this was the subject of a meeting between President Buhari and the leadership of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and the Progressive Governors Forum that lasted until early Wednesday morning.
It was then anticipated that the governors would withdraw their case from the Supreme Court.
Extension of old naira note
“The decision was made to give President Buhari room to make concessions on monetary policy and to make the following announcements public,” the official who doesn’t want his name mentioned explained.
1. “That the old N1,000, N500, and N200 naira notes be permitted free movement in and out of banks for the next 60 days.
2. “That all three notes will be legal tender during this period, but that any N500 or N1000 notes that are deposited into a bank will not be returned to circulation.”
While others were “on the same page as the president,” the governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, insisted on the complete cancellation of the policy.
Buhari was dissatisfied that the governors reneged on their promise to withdraw the case. He had delayed his attendance at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting by forty minutes to monitor the Supreme Court’s ruling.
After the meeting on Wednesday, he met with Godwin Emefiele, the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and Modibbo Tukur, the director of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), to talk about the need to let all old naira notes circulate in the system to make life easier for ordinary Nigerians.
Godwin Emefiele against the Extension of old naira note?
“The president will obey court orders.” “But he is also concerned about the suffering of Nigerians and wants to find a lasting solution to it,” the official further explained.
“It is evident that some militancy is being propagated against the populace by elites who have the means to obtain the new naira notes regardless, while the populace continues to suffer.”
“The president will remain engaged and seek a solution to the impasse.”
Three people have been shot and killed during a protest and attempted invasion of the Benin City branch of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) over the rejection of the old naira notes.
As a result of the rejection of the old naira by banks, fuel stations, and markets, it was reported that a number of residents flocked to the apex bank’s entrance early on Wednesday to exchange their old naira.
When the residents of Benin City arrived at the CBN’s entrance to deposit their old currency, they were enraged to see a Toyota Hilux entering the branch. They then began throwing stones at the building. When the security agencies attached to the bank could no longer resist the protesters, they fired teargas and gunshots to disperse the group of protesters.
The protesters, armed with sticks and other weapons, attacked commercial banks and their Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in the city of Benin, outraged by the circumstances.
Later, residents from streets adjacent to the bank in Benin, such as Sakponba Road, joined the tense situation and relocated to other areas, including Siluko and Ogida.
One of the protesters claimed that government officials wanted to collect new banknotes from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), so they became enraged and decided to stop them.
According to him, the police responded by firing tear gas and bullets into the air, resulting in the deaths of three people.
The spokesperson for the Edo State police command, Chidi Nwabuzor, stated that he had not yet been briefed on the information.
In Benin City, security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, police, and prisons armed squad, have staffed Oba Ovonramwen square, also known as ring road, and the Benin Correctional Centre located on Sapele road.
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Isah Liman Kantigi: Niger PDP gov candidate issues death threat to supporters in viral video
Isah Liman Kantigi, the PDP’s candidate for governor in Niger State, has threatened to kill any prospective voters who decide to take his money without supporting him in the upcoming election.
In a widely shared video, Kantigi threatened his supporters.
Former Edati Local Government Area Chairman Kantigi also served as Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu’s Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs.
Following his donation of two energy transformers to the Dangana and Duma settlements in Lapai, the PDP candidate recently made headlines.
His rising popularity in Niger State was put to the test in November when a disgruntled party member, Sani Idris Kutigi, contested his candidacy.
Niger PDP gov candidate issues death threat to supporters in viral video
However, a Federal High Court in Abuja confirmed him as the PDP’s legitimate governorship candidate for the Niger governorship elections in 2023 on Thursday.
In a ruling, Justice Zainab Abubakar dismissed the plaintiff’s claim as being without merit.
In the 25-second viral video currently spreading on social media, the Niger PDP governorship candidate, who was wearing a white long dress and matching hat, warned his supporters in Hausa and English that severe repercussions would befall anyone who betrayed him during the election.
While claiming to be a nice man who cares about others, Kantigi issued a warning that individuals who accept his money without returning it with votes will suffer from nightmares, the cold, and will ultimately perish.
If I give you and you spend it, starting today, you will start getting some sort of dream, he threatened. The next thing that happens after you have dreams is that you will start to feel cold, and then you will pass away.
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Tinubu, Shettima and APC governors visited Wike in Port Harcourt, Ejesgist News reports.
The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu; and his running mate, Kashim Shettima Wednesday visited Governor Nyesom Wike at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
The APC flag bearer and his running mate were accompanied by the party’s National Chairman, Abdullahi Adamu; Governors Abubakar Bagudu (Kebbi), Babjide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Dave Umahi (Ebonyi).
Others at the meeting include former governors Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti) and Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) as well as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva; among others.
However, a former Minister of Transportation and ex-governor of Rivers, Rotimi Amaechi was conspicuously absent at the meeting. Also, the APC governorship candidate in Rivers, Tonye Cole was not at the meeting.
Tinubu had campaigned in the state before retiring to meet Wike at the Government House.
Wike, a member of the G5 of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has not been on good terms with his party’s flag bearer, Atiku Abubakar.
The G5 is made up of five aggrieved governors of the PDP in southern Nigeria including Wike, Samuel Ortom (Benue), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu).
The five governors have been consistent in their demand that Iyorchia Ayu steps down as PDP national chairman as a precondition for them to support the presidential ambition of Atiku.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that all the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) National Assembly candidates in Ekiti State are authentic and cannot be replaced.
INEC made this known in a six-paragraph Affidavit of Facts deposed to on February 13, 2023, in response to Suit Number HAD/12/2023, filed by five of the PDP National Assembly candidates to challenge their suspension and expulsion from the party.
A certified true copy of a list of candidates for the Senatorial and House of Representatives candidates for Ekiti State was attached to the Affidavit of Facts.
The Affidavit of Facts deposed to by one Edu Sodiq, a senior clerical officer at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, reads in part, “I have read the affidavit in support of the Originating Summons deposed to by one Offiong Joseph and I State as follows;
“That in furtherance of the 3rd Defendant’s power to publish the list of candidates that stand nominated as submitted by the sponsoring political party, the 3rd Defendant published the final list of candidates for the Ekiti State Senatorial District, House of Representatives and the amendment made to the final list by reason of Court Order for the Ekiti State Senatorial District in respect of the 2023 General elections holding on 25th February 2023.
“A copy of the final list for the Ekiti State Senatorial District, the amendment to the final list for the Ekiti State House of Representatives are hereby annexed and marked Exhibit INEC 1, Exhibit INEC 2 and Exhibit INEC 3.
“The 3rd Defendant’s affidavit of fact is for the record purposes and to guide this honourable court in deciding the instant suit.”
It should be recalled that the PDP Senatorial candidate for Ekiti Central, Lateef Ajijola, House of Representatives candidates for Ekiti Central 1, Ekiti Central 2, Ekiti North 2 and Ekiti South 2, Joju Fayose, Lere Olayinka, Yinka Akerele and Emiola Adenike Jennifer respectively had filed a suit to challenge their suspension and later expulsion from the PDP.
Joined as defendants in the suit are the PDP, the party’s National Chairman, Dr Iyorchia Ayu as well as all members of the National Working Committee of the party and INEC.
On February 2, 2023, the court ordered that the status quo be maintained by all parties. However, in defiance of the court order, the National Working Committee expelled the five candidates on Friday, February 10, 2023.
“It is crystal clear by this affidavit of INEC that the whole exercise of suspension and purported expulsion of the candidates remain mere academic exercise,” a lawyer said.
Edo state governor, Godwin Obaseki, on Wednesday issued an arrest warrant for his predecessor, Adams Oshiomhole.
Under the guise of protesting the shortage of new naira, the governor asserted that Oshiomhole was mobilising thugs to vandalise banks and disrupt state peace.
The order was issued by the governor through Chris Nehikhare, the state’s commissioner for communication and orientation, on Wednesday.
“We spent the entire day in the city, speaking with protesters and conducting investigations.”We discovered that there is more to it than meets the eye,” Mr. Nehikhare explained.
“At this time, we would like to request that security agencies question Adams Oshiomhole. He should be arrested and questioned about his movements over the past few days, particularly in Benin City.
“Oshiomhole intentionally incited the people’s protest,” the commissioner stated.
“I know that people will assume that the protest is due to a lack of naira notes, but even if that is the case, Nigerians should know which political party is involved, because it is ironic that the political party responsible for this policy is also sending people to destroy PDP billboards,” the commissioner added.
Many Nigerians can’t get the new N200, N500, and N1,000 notes right now, which is causing trouble and suffering all over the country.
This prompted youths in various regions of the nation to demonstrate against the development.
In an interview with Channels TV, Oshiomole stated that CBN governor Godwin Emefiele deceived President Muhammadu Buhari into believing that the redesigned naira would prevent vote-buying during elections.
Oshiomhole said that the policy made no sense and that the decision was made without consulting the government.
He says that because the policy wasn’t put into place with enough thought, vulnerable Nigerians have to spend days at ATMs getting cash.
The former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) said that the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) tricked the president into thinking that the policy would stop corruption during the February and March elections.
“There was no consultation, not even within the government,” Oshiomhole said. “At least the minister of finance cried out and warned that this decision could have economic consequences.”
Former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Oshiomhole, had secured the party’s nomination to run for the Edo North senatorial seat.
