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High drug cost: Oyintiloye begs Tinubu for urgent intervene

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An urgent plea has been directed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene promptly in the surge in the prices of essential drugs across the country. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a notable member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, conveyed this appeal during a conversation with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday.

Oyintiloye emphasized that a significant number of Nigerians were currently unable to afford essential drugs due to exorbitant prices. He attributed the escalating costs to various factors, including the withdrawal of GSK, a major pharmaceutical industry player, high inflation rates, and the devaluation of the Naira, among other influences.

The APC chieftain highlighted that these factors collectively contributed to rendering drugs such as amlodipine, augmentin, paracetamol, exforge, Coartem, and other vital medications financially out of reach for the average citizen. He pointed to a report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealing a 68% increase in the value of imported medicines to Nigeria, reaching N81.8 billion between July and September 2023.

Oyintiloye commended President Tinubu’s efforts in revitalizing the economy but stressed the urgent need to intensify actions in the health sector. He expressed concern about the financial strain on individuals and families grappling with the harsh economic conditions, particularly those dealing with chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and tuberculosis.

In proposing solutions, Oyintiloye suggested addressing forex challenges, eliminating duty taxes on medications, promoting local production, and fostering a more favorable environment for pharmaceutical companies. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Pate, in engaging with representatives and CEOs of pharmaceutical firms to seek resolutions.

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While commending Pate’s assurance that the federal government was working on policy measures to alleviate the high prices of medicines, especially for vulnerable Nigerians, Oyintiloye emphasized the critical importance of prompt and effective interventions to prevent an increase in the death rate in the country.

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Minimum wage: Soludo tackles Ajaero, denies inciting other governors

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The Anambra State governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has described allegations by the president of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero, that he was inciting other governors against accepting N70,000 minimum wage as false.

Comrade Ajaero made the accusation during an interview on national TV.

In a press statement by his Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime, Soludo denied that he was running an anti-workers government in Anambra, while also listing his numerous achievements for workers in the state.

According to the statement: “The state government wishes to categorically debunk these allegations.

“In fact, at no time did Governor Soludo incite or influence other state governors against paying the proposed N70,000 minimum wage.

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“The government of Prof Chukwuma Charles Soludo has enjoyed a smooth and cordial relationship with the labour leaders in Anambra State, even as at the time of issuing this statement, no letter of notice of industrial action has been received by the state government.”

Governor Soludo urged NLC and all workers in the state to disregard such allegations and recognise the substantial progress and numerous initiatives undertaken by his administration to enhance worker welfare and human capital development.

He said the proposed strike was unnecessary and counterproductive at this juncture, as it might seem like the NLC leadership is being politically influenced by desperate external actors to orchestrate an artificial industrial crisis in Anambra State.

CREDIT: DAILY POST

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Lagos court jails medical doctor, Anuoluwapo Adepoju over failed plastic surgery

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The Federal High Court in Lagos State has convicted and sentenced Dr. Anuoluwapo Adepoju, founder of MedContour Services, for a botched plastic surgery that led to the death of Nneka Onwuzuligbo in 2020. Justice Mohammed Liman sentenced her to one year in prison but offered an alternative of a ₦100,000 fine.

Babatunde Irukera, former Director-General of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), expressed his satisfaction with the verdict on his X handle. He wrote, “Today is a proud day for me as I personally prosecuted Anu Adepoju and her medical practice. Although I have left, the conviction underscores the importance of accountability for everyone in society, professionals included. This is how society should function and evolve. Anu Adepoju and her practice were convicted on all five counts charged by FCCPC. The wheels of justice may turn slowly, but perseverance is key. A good day for consumers of professional services.”

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NCC warns Nigerians against use of pre-registered SIM cards

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians about the dangers of purchasing pre-registered SIM cards, emphasizing that this practice is illegal and could result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.

The NCC warned that individuals using pre-registered SIM cards might unintentionally become involved in crimes such as identity theft, financial fraud, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

Furthermore, the NCC noted that pre-registered SIM cards compromise the accuracy of consumer information and hinder efforts to track criminals effectively. Using these SIM cards undermines the reliability of data collected on consumers, making it difficult for authorities to identify and apprehend the true criminals.

The NCC’s message aims to educate the public on the risks associated with pre-registered SIM cards and to encourage adherence to legal guidelines to enhance national security.

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