Live Updates: Federal Government Rice Distribution and Security Operations

Federal Government Begins Selling 50kg Rice at N40,000 Amidst Protests

On Monday, the Federal Government announced a new initiative to alleviate economic strain by distributing an additional 10 trucks of 50kg rice to each state in Nigeria. This rice will be sold at a subsidized rate of N40,000 per 50kg bag at designated centers. The move is aimed at addressing the escalating cost of living and poverty levels across the country.

In response to ongoing protests scheduled for August 1, President Bola Tinubu emphasized that many of the protesters’ demands are already being met. The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has stated that the government is actively addressing the issues raised by the demonstrators, suggesting that there is no longer a need for further protests. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, assured that the government is listening to the people’s grievances and is committed to resolving them.

Security Update: Police Neutralize Six Bandits in Benue State

In a significant security operation, the Benue State Police have neutralized six bandits terrorizing the Sankara area, which includes Katsina/Ala, Ukum, and Logo Local Government Areas. The operation, carried out by the joint security task force Operation Zenda, followed an intelligence report about a bandit camp in Mbavuur ward, Logo LG.

Police Public Relations Officer Catherine Anene confirmed that during the operation, the bandits were engaged in a gun battle, leading to their neutralization. The team recovered an AK-47 rifle and two locally fabricated short guns along with ammunition. The bodies of the bandits have been deposited at NKST Ugba morgue, while other members of the group who fled are still being pursued.

Additionally, Tersoo Dabo, a 22-year-old from Udei, was arrested in connection with recent robberies along the Makurdi-Lafia road.

Presidency Affirms Right to Peaceful Protest Amid Government Protests

The Presidency has reaffirmed the constitutional right of Nigerians to peaceful protest. This statement came as pro-government protests, organized by All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen, took place across various state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The government is also making efforts to address youth concerns to prevent the planned August 1 protests, which are expected to last for ten days.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has scheduled a meeting with the legal adviser to the protest organizers, Ebun Olu-Olu-Adegboruwa, SAN, to discuss the upcoming demonstration. This move comes amid concerns about potential violence and the need to protect citizens’ right to protest peacefully.

Tragic Incident in Kebbi: Customs Officer Killed, Colleague Abducted

In Kebbi State, gunmen attacked a Customs base in Koko, killing one officer, Dabo Umar, and abducting another, Babagana Kabiru. The attack also involved the destruction of facilities. The remains of Officer Umar have been transported to Kaduna for burial, while a manhunt is underway to rescue the abducted officer. The Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute in its commitment to combating smuggling despite these violent threats.