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INEC to Destroy Over Six Million Unclaimed PVCs

By
Yemisi Lanre-Idowu
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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is considering a policy to withdraw and destroy Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) that have remained uncollected for up to a decade. This proposal emerged from 208 recommendations during the commission’s review of the 2023 general elections.

The initiative aims to address the persistent issue of unclaimed PVCs. Over six million cards remained uncollected as of the 2023 elections, including some issued as far back as 2015. Stakeholders suggested that withdrawing these older PVCs would alleviate the backlog and streamline voter management.

INEC explained that despite efforts to facilitate the collection of PVCs—including extended deadlines, devolving collection to ward levels, and partnerships with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)—many cards remain unclaimed. For instance, PVCs were made available from December 12, 2022, with the initial deadline of January 22, 2023, extended to February 5, 2023. Yet, millions of cards, particularly those issued in 2015, were not collected, leading to recommendations for their withdrawal.

In addition, INEC is exploring plans to modernize Nigeria’s electoral process. This includes phasing out physical PVCs and introducing diaspora voting. With the adoption of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), physical PVCs may no longer be necessary for voter accreditation. Instead, voters could use computer-generated registration slips or digital credentials downloaded from INEC’s website.

The BVAS, which stores the voter register digitally, eliminates the need for PVCs in biometric accreditation processes, which rely on fingerprints or facial recognition. However, for this transition to occur, Section 47(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 must be amended, as it currently mandates the presentation of PVCs for voter accreditation and voting.

The proposal underscores the need for legislative changes and reflects INEC’s commitment to improving the efficiency and inclusivity of Nigeria’s electoral system.

FG Allocates N46.48M for Alcohol Control Policy

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Federal Government has proposed a budget of ₦46,475,353 for the development and implementation of a comprehensive alcohol control policy and regulation in 2025. Additionally, ₦331,966,804 has been set aside for a national action plan to address and manage Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).

These allocations were disclosed in the 2025 budget details for the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that alcohol contains ethanol, a psychoactive and toxic substance that induces dependency. The organization has consistently warned that no level of alcohol consumption is entirely safe for health.

Reflecting these concerns, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) began enforcing a ban on February 1, 2024, prohibiting the importation, production, distribution, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages in sachets, PET bottles, and glass bottles of 200ml or smaller.

NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, explained that the decision followed recommendations from a high-level committee comprising representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, and industry groups such as the Association of Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Employers and the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria.

However, the ban faced backlash from distillers and labor unions, who argued it could jeopardize 500,000 jobs and threaten investments worth ₦800 billion. Despite the ban’s enforcement, these small-sized alcoholic products remain prevalent in the market.

Non-Communicable Diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and chronic respiratory conditions are long-term health issues not caused by infections but require sustained treatment and care.

According to WHO, NCDs account for 41 million deaths annually, making up 71% of global fatalities.

In Nigeria, the 2023 National Health Facility Survey by the National Bureau of Statistics revealed significant gaps in care for NCDs. For instance, only 13.9% of health facilities provide diabetes services, and just 3.8% adhere to the National Diabetes Guidelines. Furthermore, only 12.1% of public health facilities offer hypertension services, despite an estimated 31.2% of Nigerians living with the condition. Hypertension alone accounts for 11% of all deaths in the country.

The report underscored the need to expand facilities offering preventive and curative services for hypertension. It concluded, “Investing in improved hypertensive care will significantly boost Nigeria’s overall health index.”

Mozambique Protests: Death Toll Rises Following Election Dispute

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Mozambique is facing escalating violence following the Constitutional Council’s confirmation of the ruling party Frelimo’s victory in the disputed October elections. The death toll has risen sharply, with reports indicating that over 150 people have been killed in recent days.

The unrest has led to significant disruptions, including a mass prison break near the capital, Maputo, where over 1,500 inmates escaped amid the chaos. Prison authorities reported that 33 prisoners were killed, and 15 others wounded during the incident. A subsequent operation, supported by the army, has resulted in the recapture of approximately 150 fugitives.

The protests erupted after the October 9 election, in which Frelimo’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, was declared the winner with 70% of the vote. Opposition leaders have accused the ruling party of electoral fraud, a claim supported by international observers who noted significant irregularities.

The international community has expressed deep concern over the situation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for restraint and urged all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the crisis peacefully.

The ongoing violence has also led to a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of Mozambicans fleeing to neighboring countries, particularly Malawi, to escape the turmoil.

As the situation continues to deteriorate, the path to stability in Mozambique remains uncertain. The combination of political unrest, economic disruption, and humanitarian concerns poses significant challenges for the nation’s future.

Ghana Approves Visa-Free Entry for All African Nationals

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has granted approval for visa-free entry to Ghana for all African nationals, fulfilling a key promise made earlier this year.

The policy is expected to take effect before the end of the president’s term on January 6th, 2025.

This announcement places Ghana among the few African nations offering visa-free access to all African passport holders, joining Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin.

The move is a step toward improving the movement of people, goods, and services across the continent, and it is expected to foster greater economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

visa-free Ghana Elections

In his keynote speech at the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) 2024, President Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of the new policy in promoting economic growth. He emphasized that the visa-free initiative would significantly contribute to the goals of the AfCFTA by ensuring easier movement across African borders.

This policy aims to reduce barriers for African citizens traveling to Ghana and increase opportunities for trade and collaboration within the continent.

IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE

The new visa-free entry policy will be in effect before the end of President Akufo-Addo’s term on January 6th, 2025.

The president’s approval of the initiative marks the beginning of its implementation, with the Ghanaian government taking the necessary steps to roll out the policy.

The move is expected to enhance Ghana’s role in the region and strengthen its ties with neighboring African countries.

FG Allocates ₦45.2 Billion in 2025 Budget for Prison Upgrades

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Federal Government has proposed a budget of ₦45.2 billion for the improvement of Nigerian correctional facilities and the welfare of inmates in 2025.

A significant portion of this budget—₦38 billion—is allocated to feeding inmates across custodial centers. Additionally, ₦7.2 billion has been set aside for upgrading correctional facilities, addressing the challenges posed by recurrent jailbreaks and deteriorating infrastructure.

Other notable allocations include:

  • ₦1.72 billion for uniforms and clothing.
  • ₦1.06 billion for medical supplies.
  • ₦1.23 billion for security equipment to enhance safety for officials.
  • ₦2.28 billion for the purchase of vehicles to bolster logistics and security operations.

To expand capacity, ₦563.4 million has been allocated for the ongoing construction of a 3,000-capacity maximum-security prison in Abuja. Furthermore, ₦6.16 million will fund the construction and equipping of clinics across six geopolitical zones and the Federal Capital Territory, improving healthcare services for inmates and correctional staff.

This budget is part of a broader government initiative to modernize Nigeria’s prison system. The 2025 budget, presented by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly last week, is now under review for approval.

New Police Commissioners Appointed for Ondo, Ekiti, Rivers

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Police Service Commission (PSC) has announced the appointment and redeployment of six Commissioners of Police to various state commands across Nigeria. This follows the recent promotions in the Nigeria Police Force approved by the commission last week.

In a statement released on Tuesday by the PSC spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, the following appointments were highlighted:

  • CP Shettima Mohammed now heads the Nasarawa State Command.
  • CP Rabin Mohammed takes charge of the Kaduna State Command.
  • Adepoju Adewale assumes leadership of the Rivers State Command.
  • Mohammed Azare has been appointed as the Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State Command.
  • Wilfred Afolabi becomes the new CP for Ondo State.
  • Joseph Eribo, formerly serving in Akwa Ibom, has been redeployed to Ekiti State Command.

The Chairman of the PSC, retired Deputy Inspector General Hashimu Argungu, emphasized that these appointments represent a call to national service. He urged the newly posted commissioners to align with the government’s efforts to stabilize the nation and ensure a crime-free environment across the states.

DIG Argungu added that the PSC would closely monitor their performance, offering encouragement to excel in their new roles. He called on the appointees to show dedication and loyalty in service to their fatherland.

LPDC Rejects Petition to Disbar Dele Farotimi

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) has dismissed the request from Chief Afe Babalola’s (SAN) law firm, Emmanuel Chambers, to revoke the practicing license of lawyer and author Tomilola Farotimi, also known as Dele Farotimi. The petition, which accused Farotimi of criminal defamation and professional misconduct, was rejected by the committee.

The petition, filed by Mr. Ola Faro from Emmanuel Chambers, alleged that Farotimi had made defamatory statements against the Supreme Court and the legal profession in his book Nigeria and the Criminal Justice System, thereby warranting his disbarment. The complaint claimed that the book distorted facts regarding a case (SC/146/2006) between Major Muritala Gbadamosi Eletu and HRH Oba Tijani Akinloye and others, accusing judicial officers and the legal community of unethical practices such as corruption and bribery.

The petition further alleged that Farotimi’s book undermined a Supreme Court judgment, disrespected other lawyers, and obstructed justice for personal gain. Emmanuel Chambers requested that Farotimi be struck off the Roll of Legal Practitioners, citing violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners 2023.

However, LPDC Chairman Justice Isaq Usman Bello stated on Tuesday in Abuja that the petition could not be granted due to jurisdictional limits. The committee concluded that the alleged actions occurred in Farotimi’s role as an author, not during his professional legal practice. Therefore, the LPDC ruled that it lacked the jurisdiction to address complaints about published material and advised those with grievances to seek redress through regular courts.

The LPDC’s report, identified as B8B/LPDC/1571/2024, emphasized that intellectual property matters such as published books fall outside the scope of its disciplinary jurisdiction. Any party who feels harmed by the publication was encouraged to pursue legal action in the appropriate courts.

Tinubu’s Media Chat: Five Key Takeaways From His Chat

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held his first media interaction with select journalists on Monday, where he addressed key national concerns, including security, governance, economic reforms, and social welfare. Here are key points from the conversation. Below are five takeaways from the media chat:

  1. Tax Reform Bills for a Modern Economy:
    The President reiterated his commitment to implementing wide-ranging tax reforms to align Nigeria’s economy with global standards.

    “Tax reform is here to stay,” he declared. “We cannot continue to do what we were doing yesterday in today’s economy.”
    Tinubu underscored the importance of an efficient tax system that promotes economic growth and reduces reliance on oil revenues.
  2. Progress in Tackling Insecurity:
    On the nation’s security challenges, President Tinubu expressed confidence in the current security framework, highlighting improvements in areas once considered unsafe.

    “Today, I have confidence in my security architecture,” he said. “It is very, very unfortunate that, for two decades, we witnessed wanton killings. I remember when I had to pause my campaign to pay condolence visits to Maiduguri, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kogi. Today, you can travel these roads, which were once impossible. It took one incident to disrupt an organized environment.”
  3. Removal of Fuel Subsidy and Forex Harmonization:
    Defending his administration’s decision to eliminate the fuel subsidy and harmonize foreign exchange rates, Tinubu described these actions as critical to Nigeria’s economic recovery.

    “We were spending our future. We were spending our generation’s fortune. We were not investing; we were just deceiving ourselves,” he remarked.
    He emphasized that these measures, though initially disruptive, are vital for the country’s long-term sustainable development.
  4. Stampede Incidents:
    President Tinubu extended his condolences to the families affected by the recent stampede incidents related to charity events and stressed the importance of responsible giving.

    “Condolences to those who lost a family member, but it is good to give,” he stated. “I have been giving out foodstuff and commodities in Bourdillon. If you know you don’t have enough to give, don’t attempt or publicize it.”
  5. Expected Impacts of His Reforms:
    While acknowledging the short-term challenges arising from his administration’s policies, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient and optimistic.

    “The reforms come with temporary hardships, but conviction about their long-term positive impacts is key in this journey,” he noted. “It is not going to be Eldorado for everybody. But the new dawn is here. I am convinced, and you should be convinced, and you should help propagate that conviction.”

How Inflation is Affecting Holiday Travels in Nigeria

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Nigeria is currently experiencing significant economic challenges, with inflation reaching a 28-year high of 34.6% in November 2024. This surge has profoundly impacted various sectors, notably holiday travel during the festive season.

Rising Transportation Costs

The transportation sector has been particularly affected by inflation. In November 2024, the transport inflation rate climbed to 30.54%, the highest recorded this year. This increase is attributed to several factors:

  • Fuel Price Hikes: The removal of fuel subsidies and subsequent devaluation of the naira have led to a significant rise in petrol and diesel prices. For instance, petrol prices soared by 505.71% from N175 per liter in May 2023 to N1,060 per liter in October 2024. At the moment it sells for N1,015.
  • Operational Expenses: The increased cost of vehicle maintenance and spare parts, largely due to currency devaluation, has compelled transport operators to raise fares to sustain their businesses.

Impact on Air Travel

Domestic airfares have experienced a dramatic surge. Between June and December 2024, ticket prices on popular routes escalated by 218%. For example, a one-way economy ticket from Abuja to Lagos rose from N89,888 in June to N285,000 in December. This sharp increase has made air travel unaffordable for many Nigerians, leading to a decline in passenger numbers during the holiday season.

Effects on Road Travel

The spike in fuel prices has also impacted road transportation. Commuters are now paying over 30% more in fares as the Yuletide season peaks. This increase has forced some travelers to reconsider their holiday plans, with many opting to stay home or seek alternative, more affordable means of transportation.

Altered Holiday Plans

The escalating costs have led to significant changes in holiday travel behavior among Nigerians:

  • Staycations: To avoid high travel expenses, many are choosing to spend their holidays at home, engaging in local activities instead of traveling to distant locations.
  • Alternative Transportation: Some travelers are exploring more economical options, such as group travel or using less expensive modes of transport, despite potential inconveniences.

Broader Economic Implications

The combination of rising transportation costs and overall inflation has broader implications:

  • Reduced Consumer Spending: With a larger portion of income allocated to essential expenses, discretionary spending during the holidays has diminished, affecting sectors like retail and hospitality.
  • Economic Strain on Households: The increased cost of living, exacerbated by transportation expenses, has placed additional financial strain on Nigerian households, leading to difficult choices regarding holiday celebrations and travel.

The current inflationary trends in Nigeria have significantly impacted holiday travel, influencing both the cost and decisions surrounding travel plans. As the festive season continues, many Nigerians are adapting to these economic challenges by modifying their holiday activities and spending habits.

Protests Escalate in Mozambique Following Disputed Election Results

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Mozambique is experiencing significant unrest following the Constitutional Council’s confirmation of the ruling party Frelimo’s victory in the October presidential election. The court’s decision, announced on December 23, has intensified protests that have been ongoing for over seven weeks, resulting in at least 110 deaths, including 34 in the past week alone.

The election declared Daniel Chapo of Frelimo as president-elect, succeeding Filipe Nyusi. However, opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who secured 24.29% of the vote compared to Chapo’s 65.17%, has alleged electoral fraud and called for his supporters to mobilize. This has led to widespread demonstrations in the capital, Maputo, and other major cities.

The government’s response has been marked by a heavy-handed crackdown. Security forces have employed live ammunition and tear gas against protesters, actions that have drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations. Amnesty International has condemned the authorities’ use of unnecessary and unlawful force, urging an immediate cessation of such measures.

The unrest has also had economic repercussions. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) anticipates revising Mozambique’s 2024 economic growth forecast downward from the initial 4.3%, citing the civil unrest and the impact of Cyclone Chido. Business operations have been disrupted, and key trade corridors have been closed, exacerbating the country’s economic challenges.

In response to the escalating violence, the government has deployed soldiers to assist in maintaining order. Despite these measures, opposition groups remain defiant. Mondlane has threatened further disruptions, including a nationwide shutdown, if the election results are not overturned.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation. Western observers and opposition groups have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the election process, alleging fraud and calling for a transparent review. The government’s refusal to declare a state of emergency, despite the ongoing unrest, has added to the tensions.

As Mozambique grapples with this crisis, the path to resolution remains uncertain. The combination of political instability and economic disruption poses significant challenges for the nation’s future.

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