Edemenaha Oghenerunor Michelle, is a student of the Faculty of Law, Delta State University, Oleh Campus, wrote on the pains and gains of the recent fuel pump price hike due to subsidy removal by the Nigeria Government.

Introduction:

Nigeria, a country with one of the largest oil reserves in Africa, has recently experienced a significant fuel price hike, causing both pain and gains for its citizens and the economy at large. The increase in fuel prices has sparked heated debates, discussions, protests, and widespread concerns among its citizens. Understanding the pains and gains resulting from this increase is crucial in assessing its overall effects. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind the fuel price hike, explore the hardships faced by the Nigerian population, and analyze the potential benefits that may arise from this decision.

The fuel price hike can be attributed to several factors. Notably, the global rise in crude oil prices has had a direct impact on the cost of petroleum products within the country. As Nigeria heavily relies on oil exports, fluctuations in international oil markets affect its domestic fuel prices. Additionally, the depreciation of the Nigerian currency, the Naira, against major foreign currencies has further contributed to the increase in fuel prices. This, coupled with the scarcity of foreign exchange and the need to import refined petroleum products have led to higher costs, which are eventually passed on to the consumers.

Characteristically, the immediate consequences of the fuel price hike have hit Nigerian citizens hard. As fuel prices increase, public transportation fares rise, burdening commuters who heavily rely on buses, taxis, and motorcycles for their daily commute leading to a surge in the prices of goods and services across the country. This burden is especially felt by low-income earners and vulnerable groups, who constitute a significant portion of the Nigerian population as the increased cost of living puts additional strain on households, making it harder for individuals to meet their basic needs. Moreover, businesses face higher operational costs, which result in layoffs and reduced job opportunities, further exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the populace. For many Nigerians, fuel is not only used for transportation but also for powering generators due to the unreliable electricity supply in the country. The increase in fuel prices has amplified the already high cost of running generators, making it more challenging for individuals and businesses to cope with the rising expenses.

While the fuel price hike brings about short-term pains, there are potential gains that Nigeria can reap in the long run. The government has argued that the increase is necessary to address subsidy inefficiencies, reduce corruption, and redirect funds towards critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development. By removing fuel subsidies, the government aims to create a more transparent and accountable system that can better allocate resources for the benefit of the entire nation. If properly managed, the additional revenue generated from the fuel price hike could be channeled into projects that foster economic growth and improve the standard of living for Nigerians in the future.

Firstly, the increase in fuel prices can generate additional revenue for the government through taxes and duties imposed on petroleum products. These funds can be channeled towards infrastructure development, public services, and other government projects.

Secondly, higher fuel prices can incentivize investments in local refining capacity such as modular refineries, reducing the country’s dependence on imported petroleum products. This can contribute to the growth of the domestic refining industry and promote self-sufficiency in the long run.

Thirdly, the increase in fuel prices could incentivize investments in alternative energy sources and promote the development of renewable energy infrastructure within the country. This shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions could reduce Nigeria’s dependence on fossil fuels, mitigate environmental pollution, and potentially lower energy costs in the long run.

Fourthly, the fuel price hike could serve as a catalyst for economic diversification. Nigeria, being an oil-dependent economy, has long recognized the need to reduce its reliance on oil revenues. The increase in fuel prices may encourage the government to implement policies aimed at promoting other sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. This diversification could lead to job creation, increased foreign investment, and a more resilient and sustainable economy in the future.

Furthermore, it is important to note that the perception of the fuel price hike and its impacts can vary among different individuals and sectors of society. While some may experience more hardships, others may find opportunities or benefits. Overall, the fuel price hike in Nigeria has a complex set of consequences that need to be carefully analyzed and addressed to mitigate the negative impacts and maximize the gains.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the recent fuel price hike in Nigeria has undoubtedly caused short-term pains and hardship for the population, with increased transportation costs and a higher cost of living. The protests and public outrage reflect the frustrations of the Nigerian people who demand greater transparency and accountability in the management of the country’s oil resources. However, it is important to look beyond the immediate challenges and consider the long-term gains. Thus, while the immediate effects include increased living costs and economic challenges, there is a potential for the nation to benefit in the long run through improved governance and redirected funds for vital sectors. The fuel price hike could serve as a catalyst for economic diversification and the development of alternative energy sources, leading to a more sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria.

It is crucial for the government to strike a balance between short-term relief measures and long-term development strategies to ensure that the sacrifices made by the people yield tangible and sustainable improvements. By addressing the concerns of its citizens and effectively managing the newfound resources, while simultaneously implementing policies that promote economic growth and environmental sustainability, Nigeria can overcome the pains and harness the gains for a brighter future.

The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, has harped the importance of integrity and loyalty in the advancement of political office holders.

Onyeme made this remark while playing host to members of the Ndokwa West Local Government Legislative Arm in his office at the Delta State Government House, Asaba.

The deputy governor, while responding to the request of the legislators on the issue of single tenure for some councilors in some political wards in the local government, said the only means through which younger politicians could rise politically was to be loyal to leaders and show integrity at all times.

Continuing, Onyeme emphasised the need for the councilors to be loyal to leaders, and assured them that the single tenure would be looked into critically, stressing that a single tenure was not enough, nor healthy for political advancement.

“For you to advance politically, you should be somebody of high integrity and loyalty. Because, if people doubt your loyalty or integrity, your political carrier is already in trouble.

“So, I am using this opportunity to advise that just as we will look into your demand, we also need your loyalty,” he stressed.

The deputy governor also promised to present some of their demands, such as provision of tarred road, electricity and other social amenities, in the next year budget for execution.

Earlier, The Majority Leader of the Ndokwa West Legislative Arms, Hon. Barth Inneh Ozah, who spoke on behalf of legislators, drew the attention of the deputy governor to lack of electricity supply and good road in many communities within the local governments area.

Ozah, while congratulating Sir Onyeme on his victory at the poll, described him as jinx breaker and thanked him for appointment of Sir Osakwe as the Deputy Chief of staff who he described as their own.

A real estate developer Chief Chinazor Ezeayom has cautioned newsmen in Anamabra state against the promotion of fake news which he said was dangerous to the community and against the ethics of the profession.

Chief Ezeayom made this known while addressing newsmen on a publication published by some online media companies and Trinitas Newspaper on the 12th of June 2023.

In the publication it was reported that “Chief Ezeayom was a notorious land grabber and was brazenly building a major block of stores on the main road without any approval and authorization from the Anambra state Physical Planning Board or other authorising governmental agencies responsible for approval as it concerns to construction of structures”

He noted that it was quite unfortunate and unprofessional that the reporter went ahead to use such unprintable words to describe his personality and as such defamed and debased him in the eyes of the public.

Clearing the air over the spurious publication which was sponsored by one Mr Ifeanyi Anaeme who he said has been fomenting trouble over the acquistion of a plot of land situated at Otigba Enuovuve Layout Nkwelle-Ezunaka  in Oyi Local Government Area in Anamabra state.

Chief Ezeayom said trouble started after he commenced construction of a block of stores on a plot of land which he bought in 2016 from the Akpuwku family who were the bonafide owners of the plot of land.

Surprisingly Mr Ifeanyi Anaeme attempted to stop the construction using thugs but was resisted and he later went on to invite policemen of the Anti cult unit and also officers of Zone 13 on the ground that the plot of land was being used for cult meetings and encroachment of government land.

But after their investigation it was discovered that his claims were false and was advised to steer clear of the plot of land.

Mr Ezeayom said he then continued with the construction only for him to come across a publication captioned “Anambra residents raise alarm over illegal structure, petitions Gov Soludo”.

wherein Mr Ifeanyi Aneme used a fictitious name of Mr. John Okafor under the guise of the chairman of Concerned Residence and Landlords Otigba Enuovuve layout made all kind of unsubstantiated claims which was not verified by the reporter and publisher of the fake news.

He noted with disdain that the actions of the reporters and media companies involved in the publication was tantamount to libel and if not retracted a law suit will be instituted against them.

When contacted the head of the Akpuwku family confirmed that the family sold the plot of land to Chief Ezeayom who shares a boundary with Ifeanyi Aneme who also had purchased four plots of land from the family but his grouse was that he had plans of buying the plot of land currently owned by Chief Ezeayom and that might suggest why he has embarked on a media trial of Chief Ezeayom who has satisfied all conditions of ownership of the land through outright payment for the land and other levies approved by the relevant authorities.

Asaba the capital city of Delta state has been described as a fertile land for both small and medium sized businesses to thrive.

The Managing Director of Onej pharmacy Pastor Kenneth Obi stated this during the Official opening of Spring outfit Boutique BENEMMA plaza Asaba.

Pastor Kenneth Obi who encourages investors to start having Asaba in mind as a choice place for investment commended the management of Spring Outfits for the classy stock they put in place saying that the opening of the outfit will safe Asaba residents and it’s environs the stress of going to onitsha and lagos to buy their wears.

He appealed to the state government to continue to sustain the peace and security in Asaba and it’s environs to enable investors operate in a conducive environment.

Pastor Obi advised the management of Spring Outfits ensure that their prices are affordable.

The Manager of Spring Outfits and others who spoke expressed joy for the quality of the stock in the Boutique and the location which can easily be accessed.

Others who spoke said the outfit will end their search for a quality foreign and local materials.

Spring Outfits which is located at BENEMMA plaza by NTA Road Asaba is a new business outfits.

By Augustine Akanigha

In it’s maiden plenary after inauguration of the 8th Assembly, the Delta State House of Assembly (DTHA), on Tuesday, 27th June, 2023, unanimously approved the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s request of forty billion naira (N40,000,000,000.00) Credit facility offers by Zenith Bank PLC to the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Delta State Chapter to defray substantial part of outstanding retirement benefits to Local Governments Pensioners.

The approval was sequel to a letter from the state Governor address to the Lawmakers, and red on the floor of the house by the presiding Speaker, Rt. Hon. Guwor Emomotimi Dennis.

According to the letter, the Governor informed the House that his administration was collaborating with the State Chapter of the ALGON to reduce the backlog of accumulated pension owed retired Primary School teachers and Local Government employees, which was anticipated to help alleviate the plight of senior citizens of the State who served and retired at the Local Government level.

According to Governor Oborevwori’s request letter “Zenith Bank Plc has availed the 25 Local Government Councils in the State the said facility in a prorated manner, in tune with their respective indebtedness to pensioners, for which offer letters have been served to all the LGAs by the Bank.”

Reasons given to the State Lawmakers by Governor Oborevwori for the facility include Special Reason conditions precedent as well as Global Standard Instruction (GSD) Mandate/Set-off Agreement, that a were expected to be met by the Obligor (the respective Local Governments) and relevant stakeholders, including an approval by the DTHA.

The motion for the approval was moved by the Majority Leader of the House and Member, Representing Aniocha North State Constituency, Hon. (Engr.) Emeka Nwaobi which was seconded by Hon. Perkins Umukoro, Member, Representing Sapele State Constituency.

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday in Lagos urged Nigerians to have faith in God that the country will experience peace, stability and prosperity.

Speaking to reporters after observing the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at Dodan Barracks prayer ground, the President stressed the need for unity and cooperation, appealing to Nigerians to eschew ethnic and religious rivalries.

While noting that Allah would not burden the country with what it cannot bear, the President said:

”I thank Almighty Allah for keeping us in good health till today and pray to Him to grant us robust health and prosperity. May our sacrifices turn to prosperity. We have to make the sacrifices and that is clear, we have to.

”But Allah will not give you a burden that you cannot carry. He is there for us. We must have faith in the country. Have faith in ourselves, believing that as citizens of this country, we must join hands to build the nation.

”No religious identity, no tribal identity, let us live with one another in joy and prosperity. Nigeria will see peace, stability and God will grant peace to those of us at the warfront.”

The President also used the occasion to pray for Nigerian troops in the frontline in the fight against insurgency, saying it is his earnest desire and that of the nation that they emerge victorious.

The Eid prayer, which started at 9 a.m. was led by the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nolah.

The Chief Imam later performed the obligatory slaughtering of ram at the Eid prayer ground in celebration of the significance of the noble act of Prophet Ibrahim in total obedience to Allah’s command.

Speaking on behalf of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat felicitated Muslims across Nigeria and in the state for the joy of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging them to unite behind President Tinubu in his determination to make the country better.

“It is our duty to pray for our leaders. We must pray for our President that God should help him to succeed in the task before him.”

The prayer was attended by the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, former Governor of Lagos State and immediate past Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, among other notable government officials and top politicians.

By Jonathan Afesuku

The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, has attributed the success story of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori at the polls and successes recorded as a government to the handiwork of God.

According to Sir Onyeme, God’s work can be seen with the way the activities of the state government is being piloted.

He stated this on Tuesday at his office, Government House, Asaba, when the leadership of Christian Community Partners, CCP, paid him a courtesy call.

The deputy governor, disclosed that the administration of Rt. Hon. Oborevwori is solely dependent on God and urged spiritual leaders and all Deltans to continuously pray for the success of the administration.

He observed that with prayers and all Deltans doing what is expected of them in supporting government and its activities, the administration will not be distracted in delivering without hitches, the M.O.R.E. Agenda.

“I want to thank you, our spiritual leaders, because, we are aware that you supported us in several ways for us to emerge victorious in the elections and you keep on supporting us in your prayers and in all you do for us all to enjoy the benefits of good governance; we are aware that God is sustaining this administration.

“Don’t relent in your support for us as a government, continue to intercede for us before our God Almighty, for His protection and we shall always have reasons to thank God and be proud that we are Deltans,” Sir Onyeme said.

The President of the group, Bishop Greatman Nmalagu, revealed that God ordained the victory of Rt. Hon. Oborevwori and Sir Onyeme at the polls, assuring that they will continue to pray for the administration to succeed.

“We are doing what we have to do as Christians because we believe in the Divine mandate of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborovwori and Sir Monday Onyeme,” he stated.

During the visit, there were sessions of prayers and praise singing to God for His goodness to Deltans by ensuring the victory of Rt. Hon. Oborevwori and Sir Onyeme at the polls.

Highlight of the visit which was witnessed by the Secretary, PDP, Delta State, Engr Dan Ossai and the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Christopher Osakwe, was the presentation of the Holy Bible, Daily Reading Devotional pamphlet, among other religious materials to the Deputy Governor.

By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA

Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, has said that quality education should be at the reach of every Deltan.

Onyeme made the statement on Tuesday at his office, Government House, Asaba, when he played host to members of the National Open University of Nigeria Alumni Association, NOUNAA, Delta State Chapter.

According to him, it was because of the need for education to be at the reach of every Nigerian that the NOUN was established.

He said, “our desire as a government is that every local government area in our state should have one study centre of NOUN, that was the concept for establishing the Open University.

“For every local government area to have a study centre, there are roles that the host communities should play before the institution is established in their domain.

”Our dream is for the study centres to be in every local government area in our state, but as a government, it is not possible for us to go ahead to create study centers for communities.”

He thanked members of NOUNAA for identifying with him, assuring that as an individual who worked in the university in its formative stages for more than nine years, he will continue to identify with the ideals of NOUN and urged members of NOUNAA to always bring out their best to support the Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to succeed in Delta State.

The deputy governor noted that the success of the administration will translate to success of all Deltans.

Chairman of NOUNAA, Delta State chapter, Mr. Collins Abuah, expressed joy that Sir Onyeme emerged as the Deputy Governor of Delta State and congratulated him for his successful assumption of office, stating that “Sir Onyeme is a father-figure in the National Open University of Nigeria.”

The Secretary, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Delta State chapter, Engr. Dan Ossai, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Christopher Osakwe, among others, were in attendance during the visit.

By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA

Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, immediate past Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the Member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, immediate past Secretary to Delta State Government (SSG) Chief Patrick Ukah and other top political stalwarts on Sunday, 25th June, 2023, gathered at the Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ, Obiaruku, in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, to join Hon. Chukwudi Dafe Thanksgiving Service to celebrate his inauguration as Member, representing Ukwuani State Constituency in the State House of Assembly (DTHA)

While disclosing that he was Knighted several years ago at the Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ, Obiaruku, the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, noted that the victory of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Governorship and State Assembly Elections in the State in the 2023 general elections has placed a burden of performance on the Party.

Sir Onyeme said the PDP in the State has no excuse for non-performance now that Deltans have demonstrated their confidence in the party by overwhelmingly voting for the party in the March 18 Governorship and State Assembly Elections.

He emphasized that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori/Monday Onyeme’s mandate and the State lawmakers are accountable to Deltans for all the successes and the inadequacies of the next four years, saying “We have a burden to perform because we are the one in charge.”

“We have majority of the seats in the State House of Assembly. So, for that we also have to be humble in success and ensure that we deliver the goods to Deltans. Our prayer is that those who have been given the mandate of the people will not disappoint but will be accountable to the people and serve the people with all their heart and commitment”, he added.

Pouring encomium on the immediate past Governor of Delta State for the good things he good things he did, Hon. Chukwudi Dafe revealed that be became Sen. (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa adopted son when his (Chukwudi Dafe) father died many years ago.

He thanked the Church for the prayers offered him and the State Deputy Governor during their campaign period and urged them to continue to pray for the Government.

In his sermon titled Transformational Leadership and Goals, the Chief Host of the Officiating Ministers, Rt. Rec’d Godfrey Ekpenisi noted that Thanksgiving gives one the opportunity to dance before God and to appreciate Him. Adding that the Lord commands Thanksgiving and it’s good if it’s freewill.

He urged politicians to possessed the ability to give that giving attract love, saying “you can never be rich until you learn to give to those in need”.

Ekpenisi encouraged politicians not to disregard the people but maintain loyalty and a good relationship with those who in anyway helped them to political positions. That they should not undermine or abandoned those who held the ladder for them to climb.

While asserting that serving others leads one to lead others that service is the pathway to greatness, Rev’d Ekpenisi said “Don’t be creating or gathering crowd but be creating leaders because followers and crowd will leave you but the leaders you created will remain.”

He charged politicians not to relent in continuous prayers. That prayer is the key to life.

According to the Officiating Minister, “Prayer is the key to life. There are battles to fight everywhere. Do not be spiritual orphan. Be going to Church.”

Top political dignitaries at the Thanksgiving Service includes the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpovwowo, Members representing Okpe, Aniocha North and Ika North East Local Government Areas in the State House of Assembly, Engrs. James Augoye and Emeka Nwaobi and Marilyn Okowa.

Others were Rt. Hon. Ochor C. Ochor, the immediate past Commissioner For Information in the State, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Hillary Ibegbulem amongst others.

By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA

The administration of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori will ensure prompt payment of salaries, imprest, and other emoluments of public servants, Sir Monday Onyeme has said.

Onyeme who is the Deputy Governor of Delta State, gave the assurance when he played host to Members of Delta State Forum of Local Government Secretaries paid him a visit on Tuesday at the Deputy Governor’s Office in Asaba.

While noting that most of the delays in the payment of emoluments could be traced to late release of allocations from Federal Government, the Deputy Governor emphasized that salaries, imprest and emoluments of public servants will be paid as at when due.

“As a financial expert, I want to assure you that your statutory allocation, imprest, emoluments and anything that is due you will not be delayed under the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led Government.

“Your dues will be given to you as at when due,” he said.

The Deputy Governor added that the Rt. Hon. Oborevwori’s administration is committed to the training and retraining of workers at all levels including the Secretaries of Local Government Areas in the State.

He said, “We love to train public officers because we have been trained and retrained and that’s why we are where we are today.

“With training, workers are equipped to serve the people better.”

He noted that the government belongs to all Deltans, so, it is a collective responsibility to work for the success of the Rt. Hon. Oborevwori’s administration.

The Deputy Governor, thanked members of the forum and all Deltans for the victory recorded by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the state in the last gubernatorial election.

Chairman of the forum, Mr. Augustine Okom, Secretary of Ndokwa West Local Government Area and Mr. Samuel Meyiwa Khali, Secretary of Warri North Local Government Area, had appealed for regular payment of imprest; approval of seminar and special training for Secretaries to Local Government Councils.

They congratulated the Deputy Governor for his successful assumption of office, noting that their visit was also to tap from his wealth of experience.

Deputy Chief of Staff, Sir Christopher Osakwe was among those who witnessed the courtesy visit.