Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines for Thursday, 27th June 2024
Good morning, Nigeria. Welcome to the Ejes Gist Naija News roundup of today’s top headlines.
1. Shettima: Tinubu Supports the North
Vice President Kashim Shettima has firmly dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu is undermining Northern Nigeria. On Wednesday, Shettima emphasized that Tinubu’s appointments of key northern officials, including the Ministers of Defence and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, reflect his commitment to the region’s development. Shettima made these remarks while receiving a government delegation led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, who visited to offer condolences on the death of Shettima’s mother-in-law. Highlighting unity, he praised the support from Kano State’s government during his family’s bereavement.
Fubara Speaks Out on Failed Bomb Attempt: ‘No Governor Can Take 10% of the treatment given to me
2. National Assembly to Resume Early
The Senate and House of Representatives have cut their break short, resuming today, Thursday, June 27. Initially scheduled to return on July 2, lawmakers are reconvening early to address critical national issues, including appropriation and electoral matters. This was confirmed by Senate media committee chair Senator Yemi Adaramodu and House Clerk Dr. Yahaya Danzaria.
3. FG and ASUU Begin Negotiations to Avert Strike
In a bid to prevent a looming strike, the federal government has initiated closed-door negotiations with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Led by Education Minister Tahir Mamman, the discussions aim to address the union’s concerns and avert the planned industrial action. ASUU President Emmanuel Osodeke confirmed the meeting’s focus on resolving long-standing issues affecting the university system.
4. Fire Erupts at Dangote Refinery
A major explosion occurred at the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, on Wednesday. Workers evacuated the area, with one reportedly shouting about the abundance of gas. The cause of the fire remains unclear, but the situation has been contained, according to Dangote Group’s Chief Branding Officer, Anthony Chiejina. The fire service promptly responded to the incident.
5. Government’s Stance on Minimum Wage
Health and Social Welfare Minister Muhammad Ali Pate has reiterated that the government will only offer a minimum wage it can sustain. Speaking on Channels Television’s ‘The Morning Brief Show,’ Pate stressed the administration’s commitment to improving health workers’ welfare while cautioning against unrealistic promises.
6. Kano Governor Warns Deposed Emir Bayero
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has declared that deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero should refrain from using government properties, emphasizing his status as a private citizen. This follows the Kano State House of Assembly’s enactment of a new law reinstating Muhammad Sanusi as the Emir. Yusuf’s Chief Press Secretary, Sanusi Bature, affirmed the governor’s stance in a recent interview.
7. Atiku Abubakar Heads to Europe
Former Vice President and PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has left Nigeria for a business trip to Europe. According to his Media Adviser Paul Ibe, Atiku departed Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Wednesday morning and is expected to return soon.
8. El-Rufai Challenges Kaduna Assembly
Ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has filed a lawsuit against the State House of Assembly over allegations of siphoning ₦432 billion. El-Rufai, represented by lawyer Abdulhakeem Mustapha, seeks to nullify the Assembly’s report, citing a lack of fair hearing. The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Kaduna, also names the state Attorney General as a respondent.
9. Former Militant Leader Declared Wanted
Rivers State Police have declared ex-Niger Delta militant Gabriel ‘General’ Asabuja wanted following his threats against FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Asabuja’s public vow to support Governor Siminalayi Fubara and combat crime has raised significant concern. Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu assured the public that efforts are underway to apprehend Asabuja.
10. New Kano Police Commissioner Denies Royal Ties
Salman Garba, Kano’s newly appointed Police Commissioner, has denied any royal connections to deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero. In his inaugural press briefing, Garba committed to tackling crime and ensuring security in Kano, emphasizing his impartial service to all residents.
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