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Patriotism Awareness Forum (PAF) Commends and Congratulates Nigerians for Remaining Calm, Peaceful and Unprovoked

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5 months ago

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Patriotism Awareness Forum (PAF) Commends and Congratulates Nigerians for Remaining Calm, Peaceful and Unprovoked

The Patriotism Awareness Forum (PAF) commends and congratulates Nigerians for their resilience, patience, perseverance, sacrifice and understanding by remaining calm and peaceful in the face of provocation of incitement due to the assault and suppression of their fundamental right to movement and economic livelihood by the two days of a needless and failed protest and for going about their legitimate businesses and shunning the politically motivated protest meant to manipulate them for reasons other than national interest.
We at PAF urge Nigerians to continue to remain resolute in shunning the so-called protest and keep faith with the Bola Tinubu administration to see through the bold reforms it has planted to place Nigeria on the paths of solid economic growth and progress.
In a release issued in Lagos, PAF asserted that it is a fact that Nigerians are going through a lot economically at this point in time, just like citizens of other countries all over the world. It’s also an incontrovertible fact that the Tinubu administration is frontally confronting our economic challenges with policies and programmes which require time to come to fruition.
PAF posits that what Nigerians need at this critical time in the country’s political history, is for all hands to be on deck to ensure that the re-engineering of the Nigerian state for the collective good of all Nigerians in the long run by the President Bola Tinubu administration is supported and complemented and not to resort to acts capable of sowing seeds of discord and destabilization and thereby worsening our existing fragile economic, political and social situation.
According to PAF, ‘From our monitoring of the Day 2 of the protest called by faceless and unknown organizers and which is meant to incite Nigerians to violence as uncovered by security agencies beforehand and sadly witnessed in some Northern states on Day 1, we can confidently report that Day 2 in all the states was one of huge relief as Nigerians shunned the protest and went about their legitimate business. We observed that though there were pockets of protests in very few states, they were largely devoid of the degree of violence observed in some northern states on the Day 1 of the protest.
Thus PAF wholeheartedly commend Nigerians for being patriotic in keeping faith with democracy by remaining peaceful and maintaining peace which is an essential ingredient for progress and development.
‘Even in states where violence broke out on Day 1 of the protest, we observed that the people have come to the realization that they were manipulated and therefore decided to shun any form of protest and violence on the Day 2, while focusing on acts to engender peace, economic growth and national development which is commendable.
PAF cannot but commend the security agencies for their professionalism, diligence and patriotism to fatherland by engaging the protesters in the very few states where it occured on Day 2 and ensuring that all threats to law and order were neutralized. We call on them to maintain the same level of professionalism for the remaining days of the protest in which we also hope that the protesters will observe the rules of engagement by ensuring that they conduct themselves within the ambit of the law.
However, we at PAF regret and condemn the violence recorded in some northern states on the first day of the so-called protest and we charge the security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book according to the law.
‘We equally want to appeal to the Nigerian state to come to the aid of innocent citizens, families and businesses who suffered the misfortune of being killed , robbed, attacked, burnt and looted by the protesters on Day 1 of the protest, which is unfortunate and condemnable”.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you.
Yours Sincerely,
Nelson Ekujumi,
Convener
Peter Claver Oparah
Co-Convener.

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

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9 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

 

 

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

 

 

In a heartfelt message, The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has extended warm festive greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, and across Nigeria as the nation embarks on the joyous celebration of Christmas.

 

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

 

Recognizing the significance of this time of year, Olopade emphasized the essence of unity, love, and gratitude that the Christmas season embodies. He urged citizens to reflect on the virtues of compassion and generosity, which are particularly vital in fostering peace and harmony in communities.

 

 

 

“Christmas is a time for joy, reflection, and togetherness. It reminds us of the values of love and kindness, which are fundamental to our social fabric,” said Olopade. “As we celebrate this festive season, let us remember those in need and extend a hand of support to one another.”

 

 

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, acknowledged the challenges that many have faced over the past year, including economic hardships and social unrest, yet he expressed optimism for the future. “In the spirit of Christmas, let us embrace hope and look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Our unity and resilience can overcome any challenges we face.”

 

 

 

Olopade also highlighted the importance of sports in promoting peace and national unity, noting that the NSC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all Nigerians can participate in sports and recreational activities. He encouraged communities to engage in sports events during the festive period as a means to strengthen bonds and celebrate togetherness.

 

 

 

As part of his Christmas message, Olopade called on everyone to prioritize the welfare of others, particularly the less fortunate. He urged individuals and organizations to consider charitable acts that can uplift those in need during this season of giving.

 

 

 

In closing, Bar. Bukola Olopade wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. He expressed hope that the spirit of the season would inspire a renewed commitment to community service and cooperation among citizens.

 

 

 

As the festivities continue, the Chairman’s message resonates with the values of compassion, unity, and hope, encouraging all to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

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OGSTEP Empowers Over 15,000 Artisans and Traders with Skills Development

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14 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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OGSTEP Empowers Over 15,000 Artisans and Traders with Skills Development

The Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) has successfully trained over 15,000 artisans and traders as part of its ongoing skills development initiative under the Ogun State Skills Fund (OSF).
This was disclosed by the Skills Development Specialist, Engr. Adesegun Fatoki, during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. He revealed that the training program recorded 6,605 participants in Vocational/ICT skills, 4,989 in Entrepreneurship, and 5,288 in Functional Literacy Training.
Engr. Fatoki explained that the OSF training is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage their income and businesses. “So far, over 4,000 beneficiaries have completed their training in the first batch, while the second batch is currently underway across various trades. The third phase will target market women, artisans, and traders, bringing the initiative closer to grassroots communities,” he stated.
He encouraged artisans, market women, and traders to register for the ongoing third batch of the training by visiting www.osf.ogunstate.gov.ng. He assured that the program focuses on demand-driven skills and operates at various training centers across the state.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment to the program’s success, Engr. Fatoki reassured stakeholders that the initiative is non-partisan and designed solely for the benefit of market women, artisans, and traders.
In response, representatives of various groups expressed gratitude to the state government for the initiative and pledged to mobilize their members to take part in the training.
Speaking earlier, the Project Gender Specialist, Mrs. Ewajesu, highlighted the program’s goal of empowering artisans and traders with critical skills to thrive in today’s competitive economic landscape. She explained that the training also improves participants’ literacy and business management capabilities, enhancing productivity and strengthening the state’s economy.
Mrs. Ewajesu urged participants to make the most of the opportunity, noting that the skills acquired would position them for greater success in their respective trades.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Remo, Ijebu, Yewa, and Egba Traders’ Associations, who expressed optimism about the program’s positive impact on their communities.

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Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

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21 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

 

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has taken over investigations into the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others injured. The incident occurred when over 7,500 participants, far exceeding the expected 5,000, rushed to gain entry to the event.

The funfair was reportedly organised by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the former queen of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Ibadan-based broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat.

Naomi, who was arrested alongside Hamzat, reportedly collapsed on Friday and was rushed to the Police Hospital at Eleyele for medical attention. A senior hospital staff member confirmed the development, stating, “Both of them are currently at the hospital. The police have secured the premises, and no further details can be disclosed.”

Eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, according to Oyo State Police Command spokesperson Adewale Osifeso. A police source revealed that the Inspector General of Police has now taken charge of the case, stating, “For further details, you’ll need to contact Abuja.”

Victims and Medical Response

The Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council at Adeoyo State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Adeoye Allen-Taylor, confirmed that four children remain on admission. He added that some casualties were brought in dead and that the Oyo State Government is covering all medical expenses.

At the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, five fatalities were reported, though none of the bodies were taken to the hospital’s mortuary. The Public Relations Officer of UCH, Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed the death toll.

Government and Public Reactions

In response, the Oyo State Government mandated strict safety measures for all public events, especially those involving children and the elderly. Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Dotun Oyelade, warned event organisers of severe penalties for compromising public safety.

Governor Seyi Makinde, describing the tragedy as “painful and preventable,” announced the cancellation of his December 25th birthday celebrations to honor the victims. “There will be no birthday celebration this year. I will remain indoors to reflect,” the governor stated while receiving a condolence delegation from the South-East PDP, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara.

Condolences from PDP and Fayemi

The South-West chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed its condolences to the Oyo State Government and families of the victims. PDP Publicity Secretary Chief Sanya Atofarati attributed the tragedy to economic hardships, which he said pushed families to seek free entertainment for their children.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, also extended his sympathies, urging authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The investigation continues, as authorities work to uncover the causes of the tragedy and ensure accountability.

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