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January 16, 2025 Reps Deputy Chief Whip Onanuga Passes Away at 59

Reps Deputy Chief Whip Onanuga Passes Away at 59

The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Adewunmi Onanuga, has passed away. Born on December 2, 1965, Onanuga died on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the age of 59 after a brief illness.

Until her death, Onanuga represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State and was a distinguished member of the House of Representatives. The Green Chamber expressed deep sorrow at the loss of what it described as a “passionate advocate” who made significant contributions to Nigeria's political landscape.

Reps’ spokesman Akin Rotimi highlighted her dedication to creating a better society and her tireless commitment to public service. Known affectionately as “Ijaya,” Onanuga was admired for her intellect, humility, and drive for excellence, earning her widespread respect among her colleagues and constituents.

The House extended condolences to her family, friends, associates, and the people of Ogun State, particularly those in her constituency. They emphasized that her legacy of service and dedication to improving the lives of Nigerians would continue to inspire future generations. Details of her funeral arrangements will be announced by her family.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun expressed his sympathy to the family and described her death as a devastating loss. The governor praised Onanuga as a fearless leader, a loyal party member, and a staunch advocate for women's advancement and the welfare of her constituents.

Onanuga was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2019 under the All-Progressives Congress (APC). During her first term, she chaired the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, championing policies that empowered women and promoted social welfare. Reelected in 2023, she was appointed Deputy Chief Whip of the 10th Assembly, where she continued her impactful service until her passing.

Her contributions to national development and the advancement of her constituency will be remembered as a legacy of excellence and dedication.

January 16, 2025 Telecom Tariff Increase Shouldn’t Exceed 60% — Minister

Telecom Tariff Increase Shouldn’t Exceed 60% — Minister

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, has assured Nigerians that the Federal Government will not allow a 100% hike in telecom tariffs, despite persistent demands from telecom operators.

Telecom companies have been requesting tariff increases for years, citing escalating operational costs, inflation, and naira devaluation. Speaking on Wednesday, Tijani acknowledged the need for a tariff review but emphasized that the government would not approve the 100% increase proposed by the operators.

When asked about a potential threshold for the tariff adjustment, Tijani stated, “I think it should not be more than anywhere between 30 and 60%.”

He explained that while telecom companies argue a 100% increase is necessary to stabilize the sector, the government is prioritizing consumer protection and economic balance.

“We have already made it clear that we are not going to approve 100%. These companies are asking for 100%, stating clearly that this is what they believe they need to get. But allowing such an increase would harm our people, given that this sector drives growth in our country,” Tijani said.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is still evaluating the proposed tariff increase to determine an appropriate figure. Tijani noted that the government is carefully considering the implications for consumers and the sector’s sustainability.

Telecom operators argue that tariff adjustments are essential for improving services and maintaining infrastructure. During an interview on January 3, MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola reiterated the industry's consensus on the need for a 100% increase.

“We at MTN believe we need an adjustment of about 100%. The industry is pretty much aligned because we are all facing the same challenges. The government is sensitive to the financial pressures on consumers, so they may not approve 100%, but we hope for a substantial increase, possibly phased over time,” Toriola stated.

He further pointed out that other sectors, such as aviation and power, have already implemented tariff hikes, leaving the telecom industry lagging behind in cost adjustments.

The government’s decision will seek to balance the operators’ need for sustainability with the public's financial constraints, ensuring that the sector continues to drive economic growth without overburdening consumers.

READ ALSO: Minister Clarifies: Telecom Tariffs Set to Rise, But Not by 100%

January 15, 2025 Shettima and Others Honor Fallen Soldiers on 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day

Shettima and Others Honor Fallen Soldiers on 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day

On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, the atmosphere at the iconic Eagle Square in Abuja was solemn and reflective as Nigeria paused to honor the unparalleled patriotism and sacrifices of its fallen heroes during the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

At 64 years post-independence, Nigeria's continued existence owes much to the bravery of countless gallant troops who laid down their lives to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Vice President Kashim Shettima stood in for President Bola Tinubu, who was attending the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in the UAE. Alongside Shettima, other high-ranking government officials and dignitaries participated in the solemn event, which included the laying of wreaths, gun salutes, and other military rituals.

The ceremony witnessed the presence of Senate and House of Representatives leaders, service chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria, among others. Ministers, senior government officials, top military officers, members of the diplomatic corps, and family members of the fallen heroes—such as widows and wives of military officers—also joined to pay tribute to the nation’s defenders.

In a prior statement, the Senate praised the selfless sacrifices of Nigeria’s armed forces, extending commendation to active-duty officers and soldiers who continue to safeguard the nation from internal and external threats.

The annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day stands as a poignant reminder of the debt of gratitude owed to the courageous men and women who have served—and continue to serve—to uphold Nigeria's peace and sovereignty.

January 15, 2025 Six People Killed in Kogi Road Accident

Six People Killed in Kogi Road Accident

No fewer than six people lost their lives, and 60 others sustained injuries in a road accident in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State.

The tragic incident occurred around 3 pm on Tuesday near the Zone 8 Roundabout along Hassan Katsina Road, Lokoja. According to reports, an articulated truck traveling from Bauchi to Enugu State lost control, resulting in the devastating crash.

“The remains of the six deceased have been deposited at the Federal University Teaching Hospital mortuary,” stated Samuel Oyedeji, the State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

A local resident, who requested anonymity, described chaotic scenes as first responders worked tirelessly to manage the aftermath of the accident. “It was a horrific sight. People were trapped, and it took hours to clear the scene,” the resident recounted.

Commander Oyedeji called on drivers to exercise greater caution, particularly when operating heavy-duty vehicles. He also urged the government to intensify efforts to address road infrastructure challenges and enforce traffic regulations.

“As investigations into the cause of the accident continue, Nigerians are reminded of their shared responsibility to ensure safer roads for all,” he added.

This incident comes months after a similar tragedy in the state. On April 1, 2024, 13 people lost their lives, and two were injured in an auto crash involving a commercial Sharon bus and an articulated cement truck. The accident occurred near Obajana Market along the Obajana-Lokoja Road in Lokoja Local Government Area.

According to Oyedeji, the Sharon bus had stopped behind a truck near the market to allow passengers to make purchases when the cement truck, due to brake failure, rammed into it from behind.

The FRSC continues to advocate for stricter adherence to road safety measures to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.

 

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