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Respect Our Armed Forces, Lawan Urges Nigerians After Wike-Clash With Naval Officer.
Former Senate President Ahmed Lawan has called on Nigerians to show utmost respect for the nation’s armed forces in the wake of a recent confrontation between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, and a naval officer in Abuja.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking to journalists on Thursday after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Lawan lauded the military for their dedication to protecting lives and safeguarding national unity. He emphasized that the sacrifices made by security agencies deserve recognition and respect from all Nigerians, regardless of social or political status.
“Let me commend our armed forces and other security agencies for doing so much for us, to protect our lives and property. They deserve our respect. They deserve our support at all times,” Lawan said, noting that the current administration has been providing significant funding to security agencies and that citizens should expect tangible outcomes from these investments.
He added, “Nigerians, regardless of our status, must respect our armed forces. I have worked closely with them. They are doing a very good job. We need to give them a pat on the back and continue to support them.”
Lawan’s remarks follow the viral clash in Abuja between Wike and naval officer A.M. Yerima over a disputed property in the Gaduwa District. Video footage circulated online showing the FCT Minister in a heated exchange with armed naval personnel who had blocked access to a site allegedly linked to a former Chief of Naval Staff. The incident occurred as FCT officials attempted to halt an unauthorised development.
Wike defended his actions amid public backlash, asserting that he intervened to protect senior FCTA officials who were allegedly assaulted while performing their lawful duties. “How can I sit as a minister when government officials are being attacked? You cannot use security personnel for personal interests. No Nigerian is above the law,” Wike stated. He also said the FCT had no records indicating that the land in question had been legally allocated.
In response, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru said the Defence Headquarters is reviewing the incident to prevent similar clashes between civilian authorities and military personnel. He assured that officers performing lawful duties would be protected while emphasizing the need for clarity and mutual respect in interactions between security agencies and government officials. Further directives from the Defence Ministry are expected following the review.
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NBA ELECTION SHOWDOWN: Osigwe Defies AGF, Declares Attorney General Powerless To Stop Polls!.
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), has firmly rejected recent calls from the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to postpone the association’s national elections. Osigwe asserted that the AGF lacks the legal authority to dictate or alter the NBA’s electoral process, warning that doing so would undermine the independence of the legal profession and breach the association’s constitutional framework.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The controversy stems from the AGF’s advice that the NBA suspend its July 18, 2026, polls, dissolve its current Election Committee, and implement the National Identification Number (NIN) for voter verification. During an interview on Arise News this Friday, Osigwe clarified that while the AGF’s opinions are noted, they are not binding directives. He emphasized that the NBA is governed by its own Constitution, the Legal Practitioners Act, and other established regulatory instruments—none of which grant the AGF power to intervene in the association’s internal affairs.
“Suggesting that he [the AGF] has the power to postpone our elections would imply that the NBA is merely a department under the Office of the Attorney General,” Osigwe stated. He noted that while the Bar is open to considering advice, it cannot comply with “must-do” directives that conflict with its governing laws.
Upholding Constitutional Eligibility and Opposing External Impositions
Osigwe also addressed ongoing debates regarding zoning and consensus candidates. He maintained that the NBA Constitution clearly defines the criteria for presidential aspirants, requiring candidates to be at least 15 years post-call, have served on the National Executive Council for at least two years, and be fully up-to-date with their practice fees and branch dues for the preceding three years.
He rejected attempts by external interest groups to force their preferred candidates upon the association, calling such actions illogical. “They accuse the Bar of various things and turn around to accuse others of trying to impose a candidate, when they are actually the ones imposing a candidate,” he remarked. Osigwe underscored that any member who meets the constitutional requirements is entitled to run for office, regardless of endorsements from external bodies.
Commitment to a Transparent Process
Regarding the upcoming election, the NBA President defended the inclusivity of the race, noting that the presence of a female candidate highlights the association’s commitment to equal opportunity.
To ensure credibility and transparency, Osigwe confirmed that the NBA has invited international and civil society observers—including the EU and Yiaga—to monitor the process. Addressing skeptics who fear electoral malpractice, he insisted that all concerns have been thoroughly addressed to build trust.
“Everything is in place, and the electoral body is ready to conduct it,” Osigwe said. He concluded by urging all aspirants to focus on the polls rather than seeking delays: “Go out there and test your popularity; don’t drag the association down or tarnish people’s images. May the best man or woman win.”
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At the Lagos parallel market, Bureau De Change (BDC) sources reported that the dollar was selling for ₦1425 and buying at ₦1412.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
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It is important to note that these figures may fluctuate, and the actual rate you encounter when buying or selling forex can vary from these prices.
Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Rates
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The CBN rate for the dollar against the naira recorded a high of ₦1382 and a low of ₦1378.
Important Regulatory Note
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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not officially recognize the parallel market. The bank has instructed individuals seeking to conduct foreign exchange transactions to utilize their respective banks instead.
Source:
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Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has mourned the passing of Professor Turner Isoun, a former Minister of Science and Technology, honoring him as a distinguished scholar whose legacy in education, science, and national growth remains lasting. Professor Isoun, a renowned expert in veterinary medicine, passed away in Abuja on July 15 at the age of 87.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Governor Diri, through his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, highlighted several aspects of the late statesman’s life and career:
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Academic and Public Service Excellence: Governor Diri described Isoun as an intellectual giant whose contributions impacted both academia and the public sector. As the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, he was credited with establishing a strong foundation for the institution.
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Scientific and Technological Leadership: During his tenure as minister from 2000 to 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, Isoun championed significant reforms. He was instrumental in creating the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Galaxy Backbone Plc. Additionally, his leadership was central to Nigeria’s early milestones in space technology, including the launch of satellites like NigeriaSat-1 and NigComSat-1R.
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Commitment to the Niger Delta: Isoun was deeply involved in the socio-political development of the Niger Delta. He served as the Ijaw National Congress Central Zone Chairman and was a key advocate for the creation of Bayelsa State in 1996.
Governor Diri extended his sympathies to the Isoun family, the Odi community, and the broader Ijaw nation, encouraging them to find solace in the professor’s remarkable life of service and dedication to national progress.
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