News
Cryptocurrency, old Naira notes, other Buhari’s policies reversed by Tinubu
In the last six months, President Bola Tinubu has been reversing several policies introduced by his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, despite both belonging to the same political party. Notably, their economic approaches exhibit significant differences, with Tinubu leaning towards a more liberal stance as a former Governor of Lagos State, while Buhari, a former military leader, embraced a protectionist outlook. In 2013, they collaborated against former President Goodluck Jonathan.
During Buhari’s eight-year tenure, Tinubu refrained from commenting on government policies unless they directly affected him during elections. However, he openly opposed the former administration’s Naira redesigning policy. Since assuming office, Tinubu has been dismantling various Buhari-era policies. Here are six key reversals:
- ASUU’s Removal from IPPIS:
- Under Buhari, a prolonged disagreement with university lecturers over the implementation of the IPPIS platform led to frequent school shutdowns. Tinubu reversed this policy, addressing lecturers’ concerns about allowances and benefits.
- Cryptocurrency Ban:
- Tinubu’s government overturned the ban on cryptocurrency imposed by former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele. The directive to close accounts involved in cryptocurrency transactions was rescinded, allowing for a more open approach.
- FX Ban on 43 Items:
- The ban on 43 items from accessing foreign exchange, which was a cornerstone of Buhari’s protectionist policies, was lifted by Tinubu’s administration. Importers of these items are now permitted to purchase foreign exchange in the Nigerian market.
- Phase Out of Old Naira:
- Tinubu extended the validity of the old currency indefinitely, contrary to the previous plan to redesign the Naira. This move alleviated the scarcity of the Naira, which had caused hardships during Buhari’s tenure.
- 40% IGR Deduction for Schools:
- The Finance Act of 2020, implemented during Buhari’s term, mandated a 40% auto deduction of gross IGR for partially funded agencies, including federal government-owned institutions. However, Tinubu’s government yielded to pressure from universities and abandoned the enforcement of this law.
President Tinubu’s administration appears to be steering away from the protectionist policies of his predecessor, embracing a more open economic approach.
News
Isaac Boro Day: Presidential Amnesty Programme boss urges Niger Delta youths to shun violence
Chief Dennis Otuaro, the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has urged the youth of the Niger Delta to avoid violence as the region commemorates Isaac Boro Day.
Isaac Boro Day, observed annually on May 16, honors Major Isaac Adaka Boro, a prominent Ijaw freedom fighter who died in Okrika, Rivers State, while fighting for the Nigerian government during the Civil War.
Boro is celebrated as an Ijaw hero for his efforts to liberate the Ijaw people, including declaring the Niger Delta Republic and striving for better conditions from international oil companies.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Igoniko Oduma, Otuaro paid tribute to Boro on the 56th anniversary of his death, recognizing him for his vision and efforts to improve the living standards of the Ijaw people. He described Boro as a courageous, selfless fighter who promoted equality and justice.
Otuaro emphasized that Boro believed in a united, progressive Nigeria where equity and justice prevail, noting that Boro’s efforts were aimed at maintaining the country’s unity.
He stated that commemorating Boro Day is a significant way to honor Boro’s legacy of community service and coexistence. The establishment of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Otuaro added, was a response to the advocacy by Niger Delta youths inspired by Boro’s principles.
Otuaro encouraged Ijaw and Niger Delta youths to celebrate Boro Day responsibly, upholding the ideals for which Boro is remembered. He remarked, “Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro is an Ijaw hero and icon of the Ijaw struggle. His 56th anniversary commemorates his bravery and courage.”
He noted that many youths are inspired by Boro’s struggle, a legacy reflected in the creation of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Otuaro stressed the importance of peace and stability in the region to achieve the program’s objectives.
Otuaro also urged the youth to reject violence, embrace unity, and love one another. He highlighted that Boro fought for a strong, united Nigeria where the Ijaws could hold a place of pride, unlike some current youths who engage in divisive behavior.
News
Billionaire Kidnapper ‘Evans’ Seeks Plea Bargain
Convicted billionaire kidnapper Chukwudumeme Onwuamadike, also known as Evans, and his co-accused Joseph Emeka, have requested a plea bargain in their high-profile kidnapping case.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the State lead counsel, Mr. Yusuf Sule, disclosed the plea bargain request to the court on Thursday during the case’s call for re-arraignment. The case is being heard by Justice Adenike Cokers of the Ikeja High Court.
Evans and Emeka were scheduled to be re-arraigned on an amended five-count charge, including murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit felony to wit: kidnapping, and attempted murder.
Sule informed the court, “The case was for re-arraignment, but I am aware that the defendants have applied for a plea.”
The prosecutor also noted that the plea bargain terms are being reviewed by the Attorney-General of Lagos State, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN).
News
Peruvian Gov’t Classifies Intersex, Transgender People As ‘Mentally Ill’
Peruvian Health Minister Cesar Vasquez has classified transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals as mentally ill.
On May 10, Peruvian President Dina Boluarte, Health Minister Cesar Vasquez, and Minister of Economy and Finance Arista Arbildo signed a decree. This decree states that transsexualism, dual-role transvestism, gender identity disorder in childhood, other gender identity disorders, and egodystonic sexual orientation are all categorized as mental health problems.
Cesar Vasquez explained that the decree was necessary for Peru’s public health services to ensure comprehensive medical attention for mental health issues.
The decree has sparked outrage among the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) community, which has labeled it discriminatory.
A medical researcher at Lima’s Scientific University of the South noted that although the decree might have been well-intentioned, it shows a lack of understanding of complex LGBT issues and potentially opens the door to conversion therapy.
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