Home Blog Page 411

Edo Decides 2024: Only Poor Network Could Disrupt Results Transmission – REC Onuoha

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo, Anugbum Onuoha, has confirmed that the ongoing governorship election results will be transmitted electronically, stating that only poor network connectivity could hinder this process.

Onuoha emphasized that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has made extensive preparations, including the deployment of 4,622 Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines across 4,519 polling units, along with an additional 660 BVAS as backups.

He explained, “We have trained the operators for the BVAS, which will be used to accredit voters and track the total number of votes at each polling unit. After voting concludes, results will be counted and uploaded to our INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV).”

Onuoha reassured voters about the integrity of the electoral process, saying, “Rest assured that we will conduct an election we can call our own. The results will be transmitted electronically unless there’s no network availability in the area.”

Edo Decides 2024: BVAS Malfunctions Disrupt Voting in Benin

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

Voting in Benin faced disruptions due to malfunctioning Biamodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines at Ikpoba Okha Ward 7, Unit 3. The voting process commenced at 8 a.m. but was halted shortly after due to the equipment failure.

The unit located within Ologboshere Primary School has 838 registered voters. While issues arose at Unit 39, voting proceeded smoothly in other units within the same polling station. An INEC ad hoc official, confirmed that the commission was notified about the faulty machines and that they were awaiting replacements to prevent further disruption.

Mrs. Helen Osagie, an elderly voter, expressed her concern over the delay after arriving at the unit at 7 a.m. She praised the peaceful atmosphere but urged INEC to act quickly to replace the malfunctioning machines to avoid disenfranchising voters.

Voter Paul Eromosele also shared his experience, noting that the process had been peaceful and stress-free so far, hoping that the elections would conclude smoothly.

Edo Decides 2024: Strict Security Measures in Benin as Residents Walk to Polling Stations

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

On Saturday morning, security forces enforced a no-movement order issued by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun as the Edo State governorship election commenced.

A combined team of Nigeria Police and Nigerian Army personnel patrolled major streets in Benin, ensuring compliance with the directive. On Ekhewan Road, security officers turned away several vehicles, allowing only those with journalists after thorough checks. Key areas, including parts of Ringroad, Sakponba Road, and Ihama Road where voting was taking place—were also blocked off.

Many residents were seen walking to their polling units, and security personnel stopped them to confirm their purpose. The heightened security measures aimed to prevent any potential disturbances and maintain order during the election process.

Edo Decides 2024: Will Ighodalo, Akpata or Okpebholo Emerge Victorious?

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

As residents of Edo State cast their votes today, the three leading political parties are fully prepared for the election. With over 2.2 million permanent voter cards collected, the candidates, Senator Monday Okpebholo (All Progressives Congress), Asue Ighodalo (Peoples Democratic Party), and Olumide Akpata (Labour Party) are vying for the highest number of votes.

The victorious candidate will take over Osadebe House on November 11, when incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki completes his two terms in office.

Peter Uwadiae, the Publicity Secretary for the APC in Edo State, emphasized his party’s readiness, stating, “Our campaign has shown our preparedness. We’ve adhered to legal requirements, and our campaign has focused on issues. We’re confident, although we have concerns about potential disruptions, especially with reports of individuals linked to violence roaming free in the area.”

Dr. Pedro Obaseki, Deputy Director General of Media for the Ighodalo campaign, raised alarms about possible election interference by thugs, highlighting potential threats in local government areas like Oredo, Egor, Uhunmwonde, and parts of Ovia Federal Constituency.

On the other hand, Sam Uruopa, Public Relations Officer of the Labour Party, asserted that Akpata is well-prepared, having campaigned extensively across the state. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain impartial and called on security forces to respect the electorate.

The key battleground will be in Edo Central, the home region of both Okpebholo and Ighodalo. While Okpebholo claims strong local support, Ighodalo will rely on the PDP’s established popularity in parts of Edo South.

Edo North, traditionally an APC stronghold, has seen the PDP make gains since the last presidential election, creating competitive dynamics in the region.

The return of influential political figures like Mathew Urhoghide and Charles Idahosa has strengthened the APC’s position after a lackluster performance in the last general election. Meanwhile, Akpata’s unexpected rise as the Labour Party candidate has sparked interest, particularly in Edo South, where he has been actively campaigning statewide to broaden his support base.

Despite the Labour Party’s successes in previous elections, the competition remains fierce as both the APC and PDP are solidifying their influence in key areas.

Election Peace Accord: Will Edo’s Vote Reflect True Democracy?

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

The concept of a peace accord during elections has been widely adopted in Nigeria as a tool to promote non-violent, credible elections. It sets a formal agreement among political candidates to uphold peace and accept the election results, regardless of the outcome. However, the question remains: Does signing a peace accord guarantee that election results will be accepted? This write-up takes a critical look at the Edo Election as a case study, exploring whether the peace accord ensures election acceptance, the expectations for the election, and the level of voter preparedness or apathy.

Does Peace Accord Guarantee Election Outcome Acceptance?

One of the primary purposes of a peace accord is to prevent post-election violence, which often arises from the refusal of candidates to accept the results. In Edo State, as in many parts of Nigeria, election outcomes have been contentious, leading to legal battles and, in some cases, civil unrest.

While a peace accord is an essential framework for promoting dialogue and civility, it does not always guarantee that the results will be accepted without dispute. Political actors may sign the accord for public appearance yet fail to uphold their promises when the election does not go in their favor. In Edo’s case, the acceptance of election outcomes depends on a combination of factors, including the transparency of the electoral process, the fairness of the results, and the behavior of party loyalists. Will the peace accord alone be enough to foster acceptance, or are more rigorous measures needed?

Expectations for the Edo Election

The political landscape in Edo State is a dynamic one, with high expectations for the upcoming elections. Stakeholders, from politicians to civil society organizations, have expressed hope that the election will be free, fair, and devoid of violence. However, there are concerns about the ability of the peace accord to curb electoral malpractice and ensure a smooth voting process.

The expectations revolve around several key factors:

  • Electoral Integrity – Ensuring the election is conducted transparently with no manipulation of results.
  • Security Measures – Proper security deployment is essential to prevent voter intimidation and violence at polling units.
  • Political Maturity – Both voters and candidates are expected to demonstrate political maturity by adhering to the peace accord and respecting the democratic process.

As the election approaches, the question remains: Will the political atmosphere remain peaceful, or will tensions rise, despite the signing of the peace accord?

Voter Preparedness and Apathy


Another critical issue in the Edo Election is voter preparedness. The effectiveness of any election lies in the active participation of its electorate. However, voter apathy has been a recurring challenge, often caused by a lack of faith in the electoral process, fear of violence, or dissatisfaction with the candidates.

In Edo, efforts have been made to educate and engage the electorate to ensure they are ready to vote and understand the importance of their participation. Yet, the presence of a peace accord may not be enough to address voter concerns about safety, transparency, and fairness. As a result, voter turnout might be affected, influencing the overall outcome of the election.

The following questions are pertinent:

Are voters adequately informed and motivated to participate in the electoral process?

Will the peace accord inspire confidence in the voters, or will fear and mistrust lead to continued voter apathy?


The peace accord remains an essential tool for promoting peaceful elections, but its effectiveness in guaranteeing election outcome acceptance remains debatable. The Edo Election provides a case study to examine the accord’s impact on voters, political parties, and the overall election atmosphere. While expectations are high for a peaceful and fair election, voter preparedness and apathy continue to pose challenges. It is hoped that with adequate security, electoral transparency, and political maturity, the election will reflect the true will of the people.

Edo Decides 2024: Tinubu Calls for a Transparent Process

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

As the Edo State governorship election approaches on Saturday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a heartfelt appeal for all participants to prioritize peace and civility throughout the electoral process.

In his statement, Tinubu encouraged candidates, political parties, and their supporters to honor the democratic process and respect the voters’ will. He expressed his confidence in Edo State residents to make informed decisions about their future leadership.

Emphasizing the core values of democracy, the President highlighted the significance of civility, tolerance, patience, and adherence to electoral rules. He reassured the public of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) commitment to conducting a free, fair, and transparent election.

Tinubu called on all stakeholders to collaborate for a peaceful and successful voting experience. He praised the candidates and their parties for focusing their campaigns on issues that matter to Edo residents, including economic growth and national development.

The President urged the people of Edo to remain peaceful, respectful, and law-abiding during the election, advising them to address any disputes through legal channels. He expressed confidence in the impartiality and professionalism of security agencies and INEC officials, urging them to uphold the election’s integrity.

Edo 2024 Election: Police Assure Security, Restrict Access to Accredited Monitors Only

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

The police have issued a warning to individuals without official duties to refrain from participating in the monitoring of the Edo governorship election.

During a news conference in Benin, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of police, Frank Mba, emphasized that only accredited personnel would be allowed to observe the election process. This warning extends to those falsely presenting themselves as media personnel, election observers, vigilantes, or private security members.

Mr. Mba stated that anyone violating this directive could face arrest. He reassured voters of robust security measures in place for Saturday’s election and cautioned troublemakers to avoid the polling events.

“We want to reassure the people of Edo State that we will ensure a violence-free election and a fair environment for all participants. Those who break the law will be held accountable,” Mr. Mba declared.

The police have coordinated efforts with the Army, Air Force, DSS, Navy, and other agencies to maintain peace during the election.

Additionally, Mr. Mba prohibited the use of sirens, political party emblems, and any items that could be misused as weapons, such as walking sticks and umbrellas.

He urged journalists to verify information before dissemination to prevent the spread of misinformation that could disrupt public order.

For any election-related inquiries, the officer-in-charge provided the contact number 07025000383, reminding the public to refrain from making prank calls.

Edo Decides 2024: INEC Enforces Ban on Campaign Attire

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a crucial warning to political parties, candidates, and their supporters ahead of the upcoming governorship elections in Edo State. They are strictly prohibited from wearing campaign clothing or bringing any campaign materials to polling units on Election Day.

INEC emphasized that official campaigning concludes at midnight on September 19, in accordance with the Electoral Act 2023. Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, highlighted that any rallies or processions held after the campaign period ends are deemed illegal.

The Commission stated, “Political parties are reminded that, in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and item 12 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2024 Edo State Governorship election, all campaigns must end at midnight today, September 19, 2024.”

Therefore, it is illegal for any political party in Edo State to conduct rallies, processions, or media campaigns after this deadline. These regulations, along with potential sanctions, are outlined in Section 96 of the Electoral Act 2022.

Moreover, on Election Day, scheduled for September 21, 2024, parties, candidates, and their supporters must refrain from wearing campaign attire or bringing campaign materials to the polling units. INEC urges all parties and candidates to adhere to these legal provisions to ensure a fair electoral process.

The Life-Changing Benefits of Plant-Based Diets

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

As the world shifts towards healthier lifestyles, plant-based diets are gaining popularity for their profound impact on health and wellness. With more people becoming conscious of their food choices, plant-based eating has proven to offer numerous benefits, from improved heart health to enhanced mental clarity.

What is a Plant-Based Diet?

A plant-based diet primarily focuses on foods derived from plants. This includes fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, while minimizing or eliminating animal products. Unlike strict veganism or vegetarianism, plant-based eating is flexible, allowing for occasional consumption of animal-based products.

Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet

Plant-based diets have been associated with numerous health benefits. Research indicates that individuals who follow these diets tend to have lower risks of chronic diseases, such as:

Heart Disease: Plant-based diets are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats that promote cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Weight Management: The high fiber content in plant foods helps maintain a healthy weight by promoting satiety and reducing overeating.

Type 2 Diabetes Prevention: Diets low in processed foods and animal products can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance.

Boosting Immunity with Plant-Based Nutrition

Plant-based diets are rich in essential vitamins and minerals that strengthen the immune system. Foods such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, and nuts provide antioxidants like Vitamin C and E, which fight off infections and protect against oxidative stress. A healthy immune system plays a crucial role in preventing illnesses and promoting long-term health.

Mental Wellness and Cognitive Benefits

Several studies suggest that plant-based diets can enhance mental clarity and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Omega-3 fatty acids found in chia seeds and walnuts support brain function, while antioxidants and phytochemicals from fruits and vegetables protect brain cells from damage, potentially lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Beyond personal health, plant-based diets contribute to environmental sustainability and align with ethical food choices. By reducing the consumption of animal products, individuals can help lower greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, and preserve biodiversity. This holistic approach to wellness emphasizes the interconnectedness of human health and the environment.

Challenges and Misconceptions about Plant-Based Diets

While plant-based diets are generally beneficial, some misconceptions can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Common challenges include inadequate protein intake and deficiencies in Vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. It’s essential to plan meals carefully and consider supplements to maintain a balanced diet.

Plant-based diets offer a range of benefits that enhance health and wellness. From improving heart health to supporting mental clarity, plant-based nutrition has proven its value in achieving a holistic and sustainable lifestyle. As the interest in plant-based eating continues to grow, it becomes increasingly evident that this diet holds significant potential for promoting long-term well-being.

Fx Crisis: PZ Cussons Nigeria Begin Plans to Sell

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
-
0

Multinational consumer goods company, PZ Cussons, says it has commenced plans to sell its African subsidiaries to any interested buyer.

The parent company of PZ Cussons Nigeria said it is looking at a partial or full sale to mitigate the company’s exposure to fluctuations in the naira, which has devalued by 70 per cent.

The company stated this in its preliminary results published on its website for the year ended May 31, 2024.

According to the consumer goods manufacturer, the board has also received multiple interests regarding the sale of its African business.

The document read, “Over the last 12 months, we have made continued operational progress and delivered against the strategic priorities set out at the start of the year, against the backdrop of macro-economic challenges.

“At the same time, we have taken the important first steps to transform our business and maximise shareholder value, by refocusing our portfolio on where we can be most competitive.

“The period was marked by a 70 per cent devaluation of the Nigerian naira, which has had significant implications on our reported financials. We have worked hard to mitigate the impact of this on the group, while continuing to serve Nigerian consumers who are facing unprecedented inflation and economic difficulties.”

It, however, noted that revenue in its UK Personal Care business has significantly improved to a year of profitable, double-digit revenue growth.

On the sales of subsidiaries, the company said it has received, ” a number of expressions of interest for our African business”, which recognises the potential of its brands and could lead to a partial or full sale.

“The favourable trends of the second half of FY24 have continued into the new financial year. We are progressing with our plans to sell St. Tropez and have received a number of expressions of interest for our African business, w the potential of our brands and people, which could lead to a partial or full sale.

“Against this backdrop, we remain confident in the long-term potential for PZ Cussons as a business with stronger brands in a more focused portfolio, delivering sustainable, profitable growth,” PZ Cussons said.

Commenting on the impact of the naira devaluation, PZ Cussons said a foreign exchange loss of £107.5m “primarily arose from the translation and settlement of USD denominated liabilities in our Nigerian subsidiaries and is wholly the result of the devaluation of the naira, which fell by 70 per cent from May 31, 2023 to May 31, 2024”.

In April, the Chief Executive Officer, PZ Cussons, Jonathan Myers, said the company was reviewing its brands and geographies over macroeconomic challenges and complexities in Nigeria.

He spoke a month after the Securities and Exchange Commission rejected PZ Cussons’ request to acquire the shares of minority shareholders in PZ Cussons Nigeria Limited, its Nigerian subsidiary.

In September 2023, PZ Cussons had shown interest in buying the remaining 26.73 per cent minority shares in its Nigerian subsidiary, at a price of N21 per unit.

Stock Market Closes January With N1.1 trn Loss

As of May 31, PZ Cussons holds a 73.27 per cent stake in the Nigerian subsidiary, which represents 2.90bn shares, worth N45.53bn as of September 18.

The Nigerian subsidiary of the company, PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc has continued to struggle, as it posted a N94.78bn loss in the third quarter of 2023/24 compared to the N11.213bn gain it had in the corresponding period in 2022.

The firm suffered a N74.14bn loss in Q2. PZ Cusson remained in a negative net asset position, as liabilities surpassed assets by N46.420bn on the back of naira depreciation.

Earlier this year, the Securities and Exchange Commission rejected the ‘No Objection’ sought by the multinational to buy out minority shareholders at N23 and delist from the Nigerian exchange.

In another notice posted on the Nigerian exchange website, the company stated, “Please note that the company’s closed period, which commenced on September 1, 2024, will remain in effect until 24 hours after the release of the Unaudited Financial Statements for the first quarter ended 31 August 2024, to the market.”

1...410411412...2,675Page 411 of 2,675