Here’s a brief update of Latest Nigerian News from Nigerian Newspapers of Thursday 14th December 2023.
- IPPS Exemption for Tertiary Institutions: The Federal Executive Council approved the exemption of universities and other tertiary institutions from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Systems (IPPS). This decision also relieved the managements of these institutions from the need to obtain approval and waivers from the Office of the Head of Service for recruitment.
- Government’s Denial of Involvement in Rivers State’s Political Situation: The federal government denied involvement in the escalating political situation in Rivers State. The Minister of Information and National Orientation emphasized the government’s interest in peace and well-being across all states, including Rivers.
- PDP Chieftain Defects to APC: Odefa Obasi Odefa, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Ebonyi State, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) along with about 500 of his supporters from Onicha East Constituency.
- CJN’s Advice to Trial Court Judges: The Chief Justice of Nigeria advised trial court judges to write judgments and rulings that are flawless and less prone to being overturned on appeal. This advice was given during the 39th annual conference of the Federal High Court judges in Abuja.
- World Bank’s Criticism of NNPC’s Lack of Transparency: The World Bank disclosed that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) lacks transparency regarding financial gains from fuel subsidy removal, including subsidy arrears deductions and the impact on federation revenues.
- Aviation Sector Agency Heads Sacked: President Bola Tinubu sacked heads of various agencies in the aviation sector, appointing acting and substantive heads. The decision was conveyed through a statement signed by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.
- Kidnapping Incident along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway: Suspected gunmen dressed in military uniform reportedly kidnapped seven individuals along the Fidiwo area of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Additionally, one person was shot dead while trying to escape the attack, as confirmed by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer.
- Demolition of Rivers State House of Assembly Complex: The crisis in Rivers State worsened with the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex. Heavy-duty machines were brought in for the demolition early in the morning.
- Femi Falana’s Criticism of Rivers State House of Assembly’s Vacant Seats Declaration: Femi Falana, a prominent constitutional lawyer, criticized the declaration of vacant seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly, stating that the lawmakers were not provided with proper legal advice. He also highlighted the need for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections for the vacant seats.
- CBN’s Assurance on Naira Notes Circulation: The Central Bank of Nigeria reassured citizens about the sufficiency of naira notes in circulation to meet their cash needs. This assurance was provided by the CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Ali.
