Politics Today

Top 10 stories from across Nigerian Newspapers, Monday, August 18

Published

5 months ago

August 21, 2025

Lifeinlagos

Top 10 stories from across Nigerian Newspapers, Monday, August 18

Discover the leading headlines making waves nationwide today.

1. Aisha Yesufu Joins Obi in Criticizing Okonjo-Iweala’s Praise of Tinubu’s Economic Management

Prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has publicly challenged WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s recent commendation of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to stabilize Nigeria’s economy, aligning with former presidential candidate Peter Obi’s earlier criticisms. They argue that the economic situation remains fragile despite official statements.

2. SERAP Calls for EFCC and ICPC Investigation into Alleged ₦3 Million Bribery for Bill Presentations at National Assembly

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has appealed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to promptly refer allegations that legislators pay up to ₦3 million to introduce bills, motions, and petitions during plenary sessions to anti-corruption bodies for thorough investigation and prosecution.

3. NDLEA Captures Infamous Drug Trafficker in Asaba After Three-Year Pursuit

After an extensive three-year manhunt, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has apprehended 36-year-old Sunday Ibigide, a suspected major drug trafficker, in Asaba, Delta State, marking a significant victory in the fight against narcotics in the region.

4. Rice Farmers Attribute Rising Prices to Exploitative Practices Within the Supply Chain

Representatives from rice farming associations have identified unethical behaviors by certain farmers and intermediaries as key drivers behind the persistent increase in rice prices across Nigeria, urging for regulatory measures to curb these practices and stabilize the market.

5. Labour Party Faction Led by Senator Nenadi Usman Criticizes Recent By-Elections, Warns of Democratic Risks Ahead of 2027

The faction of the Labour Party under Senator Nenadi Usman has condemned the by-elections conducted across 16 states on Saturday, labeling the process as flawed and a potential threat to the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.

6. Housing Minister Demands Cancellation of Kano State Assembly By-Election Citing Violence and Irregularities

Yusuf Abdullahi-Ata, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to annul the Bagwai/Shanono State Assembly by-election, citing widespread violence and electoral malpractices that compromised the credibility of the poll.

7. President Tinubu Congratulates By-Election Victors and Commends INEC for Conducting Credible Elections

President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to the successful candidates of the recent by-elections held on August 16 across 16 constituencies in 12 states, praising INEC for organizing transparent and credible electoral processes.

8. Comfort Emmanson Refutes ₦500 Billion Lawsuit Claims Against Ibom Air, Considers Legal Options

Comfort Emmanson, the passenger at the center of reports alleging a ₦500 billion lawsuit against Ibom Air, has denied filing any such suit and is currently evaluating possible legal responses to the misinformation circulating in the media.

9. Nollywood Veteran Clem Ohameze Responds to Rumors of Family Abandonment

Renowned Nollywood actor Clem Ohameze has publicly dismissed rumors suggesting he has been neglected by his family, describing these reports as baseless and harmful to his reputation.

10. Nigeria’s D’Tigers Continue Unbeaten Streak to Secure Quarterfinal Spot at AfroBasket

The Nigerian men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, have maintained an undefeated record in the group stages of the FIBA AfroBasket tournament, advancing confidently to the quarterfinals and boosting hopes for a strong finish in the competition.

Source: Top Nigerian News Highlights | Ripples Nigeria, Monday, August 18

Related Topics:2024 August 18 current events headlines news roundup Nigeria Nigerian news Nigerian newspapers top stories

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Politics Today

NGX Equities Plunge: Investors Suffer Massive N781bn Loss in Just Five Hours

Published

5 months ago

August 21, 2025

Lifeinlagos

NGX: Equities market dips further as investors lose N781bn in five hours

The Nigerian stock market experienced a significant downturn on Thursday, with investors collectively losing N781 billion by the end of trading.

This decline was primarily driven by falling share prices in companies such as University Press Plc, International Energy Insurance, and Thomas Wyatt Plc, among others.

The All-Share Index (ASI), a key market indicator, fell sharply to 140,332.44 points from the previous day’s 141,566.30 points.

Following five hours of active trading, the total market capitalization shrank to N88.783 trillion, down from N89.564 trillion recorded on Wednesday.

Market sentiment was predominantly bearish, with 51 stocks declining, 18 gaining, and 87 remaining flat across 25,891 transactions.

Top Gainers and Losers in Thursday’s Trading

Among the stocks that posted gains, Skye Shelter Fund Plc led with a 9.99% increase, closing at N274.15 per share, up from N249.25. Jaiz Bank Plc and Secure Electronic Technology followed closely, rising by 9.75% and 9.38% respectively, ending the day at N4.39 and N1.05 per share.

Conversely, University Press Plc, International Energy Insurance, and Thomas Wyatt Plc were the most notable decliners, each dropping by 10%. Their shares closed at N6.30, N3.24, and N3.33 respectively, down from N7.00, N3.60, and N3.70.

Trading Volume and Value Highlights

Fidelity Bank Plc dominated the volume index, trading 96 million shares across 556 deals. Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc followed with 36 million shares in 404 transactions, while Universal Insurance Plc moved 32 million shares in 424 deals.

In terms of value, Fidelity Bank Plc led with stock trades worth N1.9 billion. MTN Nigeria (MTNN) came next, with equities valued at N1.1 billion exchanged in 1,055 deals. Stanbic IBTC Plc also featured prominently, trading shares worth N1 billion in 238 deals.

Market Outlook and Investor Sentiment

The persistent bearish trend reflects growing investor caution amid economic uncertainties and sector-specific challenges. This downturn aligns with recent global market volatilities, where emerging markets have faced pressure due to inflation concerns and fluctuating commodity prices.

For instance, similar patterns have been observed in other African markets, such as the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, which recently reported a 2% decline amid tightening monetary policies worldwide.

Investors are advised to monitor corporate earnings reports and macroeconomic indicators closely, as these will likely influence market direction in the coming weeks.

By Babajide Okeowo

Source: Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from Ripples Nigeria

Politics Today

Gov Oyebanji Urges Ekiti Residents to Stand United, Cautions Against Criticizing Tinubu

Published

5 months ago

August 21, 2025

Lifeinlagos

Gov Oyebanji warns Ekiti people against criticising Tinubu

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State. Photo credit: Official X handle of the governor | Source

Governor Oyebanji Appeals to Ekiti Citizens to Support President Tinubu Amid Infrastructure Concerns

In a recent statement, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji addressed growing discontent among residents regarding the federal government’s role in the maintenance and development of critical infrastructure within the state. Specifically, he responded to criticisms linked to the deteriorating condition of the Ado-Aramoko-Itawure road, a vital artery for commerce and daily travel.

Clarifying Federal Government’s Commitment to Ekiti

Governor Oyebanji expressed his dissatisfaction with the prevailing narrative suggesting that the federal administration has neglected Ekiti State. He emphasized that such claims overlook ongoing efforts and commitments made by the central government to support the region’s development. The governor urged residents to adopt a more balanced perspective, highlighting that infrastructure projects often face delays due to multifaceted challenges beyond mere governmental will.

Contextualizing the Road Infrastructure Challenges

The Ado-Aramoko-Itawure road, a crucial link connecting several communities, has suffered from prolonged wear and tear, impacting transportation and economic activities. While the road’s condition has sparked frustration, Governor Oyebanji pointed out that similar infrastructure issues are prevalent across many Nigerian states, reflecting broader systemic challenges in road maintenance nationwide.

National Infrastructure Trends and Government Initiatives

According to the Nigerian Ministry of Works and Housing, over 40% of federal roads require urgent rehabilitation as of 2024, underscoring the scale of the infrastructure deficit. The federal government, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, has launched several initiatives aimed at accelerating road repairs and enhancing connectivity, including the recently announced National Road Rehabilitation Program targeting over 10,000 kilometers of highways.

Encouraging Constructive Engagement and Patience

Governor Oyebanji called on Ekiti residents to channel their concerns through constructive dialogue and support ongoing government efforts rather than resorting to outright condemnation. He stressed that collaboration between state and federal authorities is essential to overcoming infrastructural hurdles and achieving sustainable development.

Looking Ahead: Prospects for Ekiti’s Development

With strategic partnerships and increased federal attention, Ekiti State is poised to benefit from upcoming infrastructure projects that will improve road networks and stimulate economic growth. Governor Oyebanji remains optimistic that with patience and unity, the state will witness significant progress in the near future.

Politics Today

Police Operatives Arrested for Brutally Assaulting Man Who Refused to Pay N1 Million Bribe

Published

5 months ago

August 21, 2025

Lifeinlagos

Escalating Incidents of Police Brutality in Nigeria Despite Reforms

Reports indicate a troubling increase in instances where Nigerian police officers have been implicated in violent behavior against citizens. This surge persists even as law enforcement agencies implement stricter disciplinary actions, including termination of officers found guilty of misconduct.

Recent Arrest Highlights Corruption and Abuse of Power

In a notable case, several police operatives were detained following allegations that they physically assaulted a man who declined to pay a bribe amounting to one million naira. This incident underscores ongoing challenges within the Nigerian police force regarding corruption and human rights violations.

Contextualizing Police Misconduct in Nigeria

Despite efforts such as the disbandment of notorious units like SARS and the introduction of community policing initiatives, reports from organizations like Amnesty International reveal that over 1,000 cases of police brutality were documented in Nigeria in the past year alone. These figures highlight the urgent need for comprehensive reforms and accountability mechanisms.

Moving Forward: Strengthening Accountability and Public Trust

To restore confidence in law enforcement, experts advocate for enhanced training focused on human rights, transparent investigation processes, and the establishment of independent oversight bodies. Drawing parallels, countries like South Africa have seen improvements in police-community relations after implementing similar reforms.

Source: Premium Times Nigeria