KICNEWS

Tag: News

  • Deadly Truck: Truck crushes man to death in Ogun

    Deadly Truck: Truck crushes man to death in Ogun

    Truck crushes man to death in Ogun

    A yet-to-be-identified person was crushed to death in an early morning accident that occurred along the Abeokuta-Sagamu expressway on Friday.
     
    The spokesperson for the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency, Babatunde Akinbiyi, confirmed this in a terse message sent to PUNCH Online on Friday.
    Photographs at the scene of the incident obtained by our correspondent showed the unidentified man trapped under one of the tyres of the truck.
    A yet-to-be-identified person was crushed to death in an early morning accident that occurred along the Abeokuta-Sagamu expressway on Friday.

    The spokesperson for the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency, Babatunde Akinbiyi, confirmed this in a terse message sent to PUNCH Online on Friday.

    Photographs at the scene of the incident obtained by our correspondent showed the unidentified man trapped under one of the tyres of the truck.

  • NLC kicks against calls for different minimum wage for states

    NLC kicks against calls for different minimum wage for states

    NLC kicks against calls for different minimum wage for states

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has opposed the call by some politicians for decentralizing minimum wage negotiations allowing states to have different minimum wages.

    In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Ibadan, the Secretary of NLC in Oyo State, Mr. Adebayo Aribatise, stated that decentralizing minimum wage negotiations would disadvantage workers in some states.

    Explaining the broader implications of a centralized minimum wage, Fayemi noted that only a small percentage of the population benefits directly from minimum wage negotiations.

    However, Aribatise strongly opposed decentralizing minimum wage negotiations, stating that it is not ideal for the country.

    He pointed out that some states have not yet fully implemented the old N30,000 minimum wage despite the efforts of the NLC at both the national and state levels.

    He said, “The fact remains that the law binds states to pay national minimum wage. It is expected that the federal government will continue to set the minimum wage. If not, some governors will continue to do as they like.”

    “Some governors will bastardise the agreement if we allow it and junior workers will continue to earn nothing worthwhile,”

    Backstory

    Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, had earlier emphasized the need for states to conduct wage negotiations with their labour unions independently from the Federal Government.

    Fayemi explained that the position of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, which he once chaired, was that states should be allowed to negotiate with their labour unions separately, as “fingers are not equal.”

    What you should know

    The negotiation for a new minimum wage has lingered on in the past months due to the difficulty of different stakeholders in reaching a consensus.

    While the federal government and the private sector have agreed on a new minimum wage of N62,000, organised labour led by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) are proposing N250,000.

    According to organised labour groups, a N62,000 minimum wage is not enough for the average worker in light of the significant increase in the cost of goods and services across the nation.

    The federal government had earlier stated that it cannot sustain the proposed minimum wage by organised labour which would amount to around N19 trillion yearly.

    On the other hand, the private sector led by NECA had also complained that it cannot meet the demands of labour unions now or any time soon stating the goal of the tripartite committee is to focus on job creation.

    The negotiation for a new minimum wage has been thorny leading to strike action that nearly crippled the economy with the shutting down of the national grid.

  • Explosion: ‘Don’t Transfer Suspect To Abuja’

    Explosion: ‘Don’t Transfer Suspect To Abuja’

     

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has called on the Nigerian Police to resist the pressure to transfer the prime suspect in last Tuesday’s explosion in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, to Abuja.

    The suspect, whose limb was severely damaged after he attempted to detonate an explosive near the President Hotel in the state capital, is currently receiving treatment at the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, under the watchful eyes of operatives of the State Police Command.

     

    The suspect, whose limb was severely damaged after he attempted to detonate an explosive near the President Hotel in the state capital, is currently receiving treatment at the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, under the watchful eyes of operatives of the State Police Command.

    Eze, in a statement made available to LEADERSHIP in Port Harcourt yesterday, expressed fears that investigations into the incident may be marred by undue interference as he has it on good authority that the Force Headquarters is under pressure to transfer the prime suspect in the explosion to Abuja.

    He therefore called on the Inspector General of Police to resist any pressure on him to scuttle investigation into the incident to unravel the masked-man of influence fueling armed conflict in the state to topple the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

    The APC chieftain condemned attempts by former council chairmen and some lawmakers to turn the political playground in the state into an unsavory scene of carnage and bloodbath to justify their call for an emergency rule.

     

     

  • Labour Politics: Govs Meet Over Minimum Wage, LG Autonomy

    Labour Politics: Govs Meet Over Minimum Wage, LG Autonomy

    Governors of the thirty-six states under the umbrella of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) are currently meeting to address the ongoing debate surrounding the new minimum wage proposal and local government autonomy.

    Previously, the governors expressed concerns about the Federal Government’s proposed ₦60,000 minimum wage, deeming it unsustainable.

    They argued that implementing such a wage would result in many states allocating their entire monthly federation account disbursements solely to salary payments

    The governors have urged the tripartite committee to agree on a fair and sustainable minimum wage.

    In response to these concerns, the Federal Government announced on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu would engage in further consultations before reaching a decision on the new minimum wage.

    Another key item on the agenda is the unresolved issue of local government autonomy.

    The governors are also set to deliberate on other critical matters of national importance, covering a wide range of pressing issues that impact the country’s socio-economic and political landscape.

    This high-level meeting aims to foster collaborative solutions and develop strategic initiatives to address Nigeria’s challenges, with the goal of ensuring a unified and effective approach to governance.

     

     

  • APC: Nothing Will Change Even If You Reshuffle Your Cabinet Every Week – APC Knocks Makinde

    APC: Nothing Will Change Even If You Reshuffle Your Cabinet Every Week – APC Knocks Makinde

    The All-Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has reacted to Governor Seyi Makinde’s cabinet reshuffle.

    Reports said that the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju had announced a minor cabinet shake-up on Tuesday.

    However, the APC argued that a cabinet reshuffle would make no difference unless  Makinde implements an ideal blueprint or work plan.

    The Publicity Secretary of the APC, Olawale Sadare, told Punch that the problem with Makinde’s administration is more than his choice of cabinet members.

    Sadare insisted that the issue with the administration is Makinde, adding that the governor is neither a team player nor a democrat.

    He said, “The problem with the current PDP administration of Governor Seyi Makinde is more than his choice of cabinet members but the person of the governor. We have observed that he is neither a team player nor a democrat.

    “Five years down the line, none of his commissioners is popular as most residents cannot possibly tell who they are since they are not visible. Governor Makinde runs a one-man show and it is evident the governor does not give his appointees enough room to perform their

    All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has reacted to Governor Seyi Makinde’s cabinet reshuffle.

     

    However, the APC argued that a cabinet reshuffle would make no difference unless  Makinde implements an ideal blueprint or work plan.

    The Publicity Secretary of the APC, Olawale Sadare, told Punch that the problem with Makinde’s administration is more than his choice of cabinet members.Sadare insisted that the issue with the administration is Makinde, adding that the governor is neither a team player nor a democrat.

    He said, “The problem with the current PDP administration of Governor Seyi Makinde is more than his choice of cabinet members but the person of the governor. We have observed that he is neither a team player nor a democrat.

    “Five years down the line, none of his commissioners is popular as most residents cannot possibly tell who they are since they are not visible. Governor Makinde runs a one-man show and it is evident the governor does not give his appointees enough room to perform their functions.

    “The most visible among the commissioners earned his popularity through his penchant for media stunts as he takes the opportunity of every traditional festival or social function to dance in front of cameras.

    “Unless Governor Makinde sits down with relevant resource persons to produce an ideal blueprint or work plan which he would be ready to implement sincerely, no concrete developmental stride would be achieved by the Makinde administration.

    “He can decide to reshuffle his cabinet every week but as long as he sees his appointees as mere figureheads, he cannot get the best from them. A situation whereby a commissioner cannot address the press without the consent of the governor speaks volumes about the condition under which they operate.”

  • BREAKING: Fire Guts Chris Oyakhilome’s Christ Embassy Church Headquarters In Lagos

    BREAKING: Fire Guts Chris Oyakhilome’s Christ Embassy Church Headquarters In Lagos

     

    BREAKING: Fire Guts Chris Oyakhilome’s Christ Embassy Church Headquarters In Lagos

     

    The church owned by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, and located in the Oregun area of Ikeja, Lagos State, reportedly caught fire on Sunday morning.

    Property worth millions of naira have been destroyed in a fire incident that occurred at the headquarters of the Christ Embassy Church in Lagos.

     

    The church owned by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, and located in the Oregun area of Ikeja, Lagos State, reportedly caught fire on Sunday morning.

    Multiple videos from the scene were seen by SaharaReporters.

    Posting on X, @Guavv918 said, “JESUS CHRIST… I just got to church. And the building is on fire. Christ Embassy Church.. Head Quarters (CELVZ) Billings way Ikeja is on fire.  Love World Convocation Arena Is On Fire. God have Mercy.”

     

     

  • Lagos Impounds 40 Vehicles Over Alleged Illegal Motor Parks, Obstructions

    Lagos Impounds 40 Vehicles Over Alleged Illegal Motor Parks, Obstructions

    Lagos Impounds 40 Vehicles Over Alleged Illegal Motor Parks, Obstructions

    The Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, who made this known in a statement issued on Friday, said the operation was led by LASTMA Head of Enforcement Mr. Kayode Odunuga, under the directives of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa.

     

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says its officers have impounded 25 commercial and 15 private vehicles allegedly operating illegal parks and causing “serious” road obstructions around Oyingbo, Ijora, and Idumota areas.

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    The Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, who made this known in a statement issued on Friday, said the operation was led by LASTMA Head of Enforcement Mr. Kayode Odunuga, under the directives of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa.

     

    According to Taofiq, the operation specifically targeted illegal garages that have been a persistent source of congestion and inconvenience for residents and commuters.

     

    Taofiq said that Giwa confirmed that the impoundment exercise, which began recently, is part of a broader initiative by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to enhance the efficiency of the city’s

    transportation network.

    According to the LASTMA spokesperson, Giwa emphasised that the government was committed to maintaining law and order on the roads and ensuring that all traffic regulations are strictly enforced.

     

    The governor’s aide said “illegal garages have been a significant challenge in our quest to maintain a seamless traffic flow in Lagos”.

     

    He said, “These impoundments send a strong message to all offenders that the state will not tolerate activities that disrupt public order and endanger the lives of our citizens.

     

    “Our goal is to create a safe and orderly environment for all road users and this action is a crucial step in that direction.”

     

    Taofiq noted in the statement that the targeted areas – Oyingbo, Ijora, and Idumota – are known hotspots for traffic congestion due to unauthorised parking and the establishment of makeshift garages.

     

    “These activities not only obstruct the free movement of vehicles but also pose safety risks to pedestrians. LASTMA’s intervention aims to clear these bottlenecks and enhance the overall traffic situation in these critical areas.

     

    “Residents and business owners have expressed their support for the government’s action, noting the positive impact it will have on their daily activities.

     

    “LASTMA has also assured the public that the operation will be sustained and extended to other parts of the city where illegal garages and related activities are prevalent.

     

    “Hon. Giwa urged all vehicle owners and operators to adhere to the state’s traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid sanctions. He reiterated that the government’s primary objective is to create a better and more livable Lagos for everyone.

     

    “He also urged motorists to take ownership of the roads and to promptly inform LASTMA of any broken down or abandoned trailers or trucks via the Agency’s hotlines: 08100565860 / 08129928503,” Taofiq added.

  • he Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed rumours linking Herve Renard with the Super Eagles head coach position,

    he Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed rumours linking Herve Renard with the Super Eagles head coach position,

    Nigeria Football Team News: Herve Renard not on NFF’s shortlist to replace Finidi George

    A senior NFF official has reportedly revealed that they have not approached Renard, who currently coaches the French women’s national team, to replace Finidi George.

    Finidi, it would be recalled, stepped down after just two games in charge of the Super Eagles, leaving the NFF searching for a new head coach

    Despite Renard’s impressive record in African football, including Africa Cup of Nations victories with Zambia in 2012 and Ivory Coast in 2015, the NFF is not considering him for the role. Renard also recently led Saudi Arabia to a notable World Cup victory over Argentina.

    An NFF official told BBC’s Oluwashina Okeleji, “This report is inaccurate. We’ve not contacted Renard or his reps (representatives).”

    Renard, a three-time CAF Coach of the Year, is currently focused on preparing the French women’s team for the upcoming Olympics.

    The NFF is under pressure from fans to appoint a high-profile coach, but they have yet to make any moves towards Renard.

    Instead, they are reportedly considering other candidates, including former Cameroon coach Antonio Conceicao.

    The NFF’s primary goal is to ensure the Super Eagles qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after missing out on the 2022 tournament in Qatar. With the search ongoing, the NFF aims to find a coach capable of leading Nigeria back to the global stage.

     

  • Nigeria Football News: We’ve Changed NNL Narratives for Good, Says Aluo

    Nigeria Football News: We’ve Changed NNL Narratives for Good, Says Aluo

    Chairman of Nigeria National League, (NNL) Mr. George Aluo, has said that the present board of the second-tier league under his watch has in less than one year in office succeeded in changing the narratives of the most important league in the country even as he commended sportswriters for being partners in progress with the league body.

    Speaking with journalists in Lagos as a special guest of the just concluded Paddysco Sports Award, Aluo described the league and Super 8 at Enugu as a huge success noting that the league house will build on the successes recorded to prosecute a more successful league next season.

    “The just concluded league was a huge success and let me start by saying a very big thank you to my colleagues. They’ve been wonderful.The support they’ve given us has been massive and don’t forget that football is a media event and as we tried to change the narratives, my colleagues in the media cued in and as such they deserve special recognition for their role in supporting the NNL.

    “I decided to single out the media because if we’re doing a good job and the media refuses to put us on the spotlight, we won’t be able to make Nigerians appreciate what we’re doing,” he stressed

    Aluo explained that when the present board took over July last year, the NNL was described as cash and carry league while some people described it as Inter House League but in less than one year on the saddle, the perception has changed.

    According to him, when the NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau gave him the mandate to lead the NNL, he felt it was a challenge because he knew that other journalists who have been there before him namely; Fan Ndubuoke, Mitchel Obi, Danladi Bako, Mainasara Iloh and Paul Bassey performed excellently well and with Aisha Falode being on the board of NFF with him, he has no reason to fail.

    “When the NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau first appointed me as the chairman of NNL, I saw it as a challenge because other journalists before me performed excellently well on the NNL. But today I can beat my chest to say that after one year, we have re- branded the league.

    The NNL boss further described the Super 8 as a testimony to the fact that 8 teams that came to Enugu got there on merit and at the end of the day, the best four teams were promoted to the NPFL positing that it was the excellent administrative frame work put in place that enabled an academy team like Beyond Limits to gain promotion to the elite league which goes to show the quality of the league and that there was a level playing ground.

     

  • Protesters shot and fire at parliament as Kenyans demonstrate against tax rises

    Protesters shot and fire at parliament as Kenyans demonstrate against tax rises

     

    Protesters shot and fire at parliament as Kenyans demonstrate against tax rises

     

    Dozens of injured sent to main referral hospital
    published at 14:23
    14:23
    Some 45 injured people have been sent to Nairobi’s Kenyatta National Hospital, the country’s biggest referral hospital

    They are receiving treatment and surgery, the hospital says on X, external.

    “Seven being female with different kinds of injuries… We have had no mortalities from the demonstration so far.

     

    Protesters inside parliament
    published at 14:14
    14:14
    More footage of the protest is starting to emerge as the unrest intensifies. In a video posted on X, external, several men men are seen pulling apart a stand that displays flags in the Parliament building, smashing the poles against the floor.

    Another man attempts to kick in the doors to the senate.Glass covers the ground and shouting and the sound of whistles can be heard in the background.

     

     

    At least 10 killed – paramedic
    published at 14:04
    14:04
    Several people are feared dead from the clashes between police and protesters.

    A paramedic has told the Reuters news agency that at least 10 protesters have been killed so far.

    The death toll is likely to rise as police continue to battle the protesters inside and outside parliament.

    Ambulances can be seen carrying the injured from the streets.

    I am at All Saints Cathedral, close to the Central Business District, where medics and doctors have set up a medical camp. Dozens of doctors are here receiving casualties.

    People are running into the cathedral chased by police who are lobbing tear gas. And just in the past few minutes we have seen two ambulances arrive carrying some of the wounded.

    The police are shooting with live ammunition. We have seen two people arrive with gunshot wounds. They are injured but conscious.

    There are dead but not here.

    Earlier I was at the Nairobi expressway where I could see bodies on the street. They were lying in pools of blood, with one’s head completely blown off.