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U.S. and NATO Criticize Orban for Secret Putin Meeting

Hungary Prime Minister Orban

The United States and NATO allies have expressed strong disapproval of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s recent clandestine meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This meeting occurred just before Orban’s visit to the Florida residence of former U.S. President Donald Trump, the anticipated Republican nominee for the 2024 presidential election.

Orban’s unsanctioned visit to Russia, which has been engaged in a full-scale invasion of Ukraine since February 2022—a move opposed by NATO—has been perceived as a defiant act by a leader of a NATO member country. Despite this, NATO allies have stated that Orban’s actions will not impede Ukraine’s eventual membership in the alliance.

Orban, who assumed the six-month rotating EU Presidency in July, secretly traveled to Moscow to discuss ending Russia’s invasion of Ukraine without informing EU or NATO allies. This visit happened just before the July 9-11 NATO summit in Washington, hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden.

Jake Sullivan, Biden’s national-security adviser, emphasized the U.S. stance, stating, “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. Any actions taken without Ukrainian consent or support are inconsistent with our policy.” Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis and German Chancellor Olah Scholz also criticized Orban’s Moscow visit, stressing that he does not represent EU or NATO views.

Orban’s opposition to Ukraine’s NATO bid has been a focal point during the summit. Despite his actions, NATO members reaffirmed that Ukraine’s path to membership remains “irreversible.” Orban is reportedly heading to Florida to meet Trump after the summit. Trump has suggested he could negotiate a deal between Ukraine and Russia if elected, although specifics have not been provided.

During his previous presidency from 2017 to 2021, Trump frequently criticized NATO members for not meeting the defense spending target of 2% of GDP and even suggested the possibility of the U.S. withdrawing from the alliance. At a recent campaign rally, Trump reiterated his grievances, stating that the U.S. was unfairly shouldering most of NATO’s financial burden.

Hungary has also cast doubts on Ukraine’s NATO membership, with Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto arguing that it could weaken the alliance due to differing viewpoints among members.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stated that the potential Orban-Trump meeting does not diminish the summit’s agreements. He reassured that NATO remains crucial for U.S. security and strength, noting that the alliance has significantly increased defense spending targets, with 23 members now meeting the 2% GDP benchmark, up from 9 members when Trump left office.

Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Politics

Corrupt Nigerian politicians should be executed – Ex-APC South Africa chairman

An ex-APC chairman in South Africa, Bola Babarinde says corrupt politicians in Nigeria should be executed

A former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in South Africa, Bola Babarinde has called for the execution of corrupt politicians in Nigeria.

Babarinde made this call in a statement on Tuesday, adding that there is an urgent need to consider capital punishment as a stringent way to restore Nigeria’s accountability and integrity.

According to him, the ostentatious display of wealth by some public office holders needs a thorough scrutiny.

He added that there should be a regular life audit to assess the legitimacy of public office holders’ assets.

Babarinde said this is necessary as many of the Nigerian politicians could not afford certain luxuries without engaging in corrupt practices.

The former APC chairman in South Africa said such a mechanism to monitor and curb public servants’ excessive and reckless display of unexplained wealth is very important to build trust in the citizenry.

“Leadership by example is crucial. The substantial budgets allocated for renovations and SUVs, while public servants preach patience to the citizenry, reflect a disconnect between those in power and the public they serve,” Babarinde said.

“This disparity undermines public trust and calls for a re-evaluation of spending practices. Transparency in the salaries and allowances of public office holders is needed.

“The current figures are excessive, and a reduction to 60 per cent of their present levels should be implemented, along with a formal apology to Nigerians for the misallocation of funds and pledge to fully optimise expenditure for national development.

“Public office holders and those with police escorts must adhere to traffic regulations. The prevalence of road rage and disregard for laws by those who can afford security details is troubling and needs to be addressed.”

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National

Nigerian Senator Ifeanyi Ubah Passes Away in London

Ubah

Nigerian Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) representing Anambra South, has passed away.

SaharaReporters has been informed that Ubah passed away at a hotel in London, UK. He had traveled to London two days prior.

His passing was also verified in a group chat of senators, who began sharing their tributes.

A few days ago, his campaign team contributed N71 million to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State, enhancing the party’s influence and capability in the area.

Read Also: Oando Plc denies involvement with Maltese Company

The contribution, with N50 million coming directly from Senator Ubah, fulfilled his promise to back the party and improve its operations in the state.

The senate has not yet made a statement about the incident.

Source: SaharaReporters

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Politics

Elon Musk Calls Out Media: “Joe Biden is ‘Sharp as a Tack'” and Kamala Harris Hype

In a recent tweet, Elon Musk highlighted the media’s inconsistent portrayal of President Joe Biden’s cognitive abilities. Just weeks ago, the media praised Biden as “sharp as a tack.” However, following his abrupt resignation as the Democratic nominee, allegedly without informing his staff, the narrative shifted dramatically. Now, Kamala Harris is being lauded as the ideal candidate.

This stark contrast in media coverage raises questions about the accuracy and motives behind such reporting. Are we witnessing a manipulation of public perception, or is it a reflection of deeper issues within the political sphere?

Elon Musk’s tweet underscores a critical issue: the media’s power to influence public opinion. When Biden was portrayed as mentally sharp, it aligned with a narrative beneficial to his administration. Yet, the sudden shift to support Kamala Harris suggests a reactive and potentially misleading approach to political coverage.

Concerns about Biden’s memory and cognitive health have been a recurring theme. The portrayal of his mental acuity often fluctuates based on political convenience. This inconsistency fuels speculation about the true state of his health and the extent to which the media is complicit in shaping a preferred political outcome.

With Biden’s departure, Kamala Harris has become the center of media attention. The rapid pivot to support her raises questions about the media’s objectivity and the possible orchestration behind these narratives. Is the media genuinely reflecting the best interests of the public, or are they manipulating perceptions to fit a predetermined agenda?

Elon Musk’s tweet serves as a reminder to critically evaluate media reports, especially regarding political figures. The shifting portrayal of Biden’s cognitive abilities and the sudden praise for Kamala Harris highlight potential biases and the need for a more transparent and objective media landscape.

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News

Shaibu Accuses Obaseki of Plotting His Assassination

Obaseki and Shaibu

Philip Shaibu, the reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, has accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of orchestrating the gun attack against him on Thursday, labelling it an assassination attempt.

Shaibu made this assertion on Friday in response to the state government’s allegation that he was behind the attack, which resulted in the death of Inspector Akor Onuh near Benin Airport.

The Deputy Governor expressed his shock over the assault, emphasizing that he has refrained from calling for any protests over the past year to avoid conflicts with the state government and its representatives.

Additionally, Shaibu has filed a N5 billion lawsuit for defamation against Governor Obaseki, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation Chris Nehikhare, and the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie.

He mentioned that he wasn’t surprised by Nehikhare and Osagie’s insistence on keeping him impeached. He accused them of not properly reviewing the court’s ruling before issuing their responses, which he claimed is their typical approach.

Check this out: Seyi Tinubu Pledges Immediate Support To Collapsed Plateau School

He clarified that the ruling reinstating him was declarative and needed to be implemented before any appeal on the matter could be considered. He also noted that the state’s request for a stay on the execution of the judgment would not be addressed until the judgment is enforced.

“I can tell you that Thursday’s attack was planned by the state governor to assassinate me. The governor vowed to destroy me when I remained resolute in vying for the position of the governor.

“They said I was the one who planned the attack but I came in peacefully from Abuja to the state capital. Why were the armed thugs laying ambush for me? Were they expecting a visitor?

“I have already instituted a N5 billion suit against the governor, Nehikhare and Osagie for defamation. They will be served next week.

“I have resumed, recalled all my staff and I will be working from home in order to prevent any confrontation. I remain the deputy governor. All salary and entitlement will be paid,” he added.

In the meantime, Chris Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, has refuted the claim that Governor Godwin Obaseki orchestrated the assault.

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News

No Protests Against President Tinubu- Gov. Hope Uzodinma

Uzodinma

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State passionately implored the youths of Southeast Nigeria to reject calls for protests against the government. He fervently accused the advocates of such demonstrations of being traitors intent on wreaking havoc on national stability.

Speaking fervently in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State, during the grand finale of the All Progressive Congress (APC) campaign for the local government election, he emphasized his unwavering belief that the people of the region have no legitimate reason to rise against the current administration.

President Tinubu

Governor Uzodinma highlighted the tireless efforts of the federal government and President Bola Tinubu in seeking enduring solutions to the severe economic hardships plaguing the nation. As the chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum, he earnestly appealed to the people to extend their patience, urging them to trust in the government’s commitment and give it the time needed to overcome these monumental challenges.

He said: “To the youths of southeast, because we are on the path of growth, our enemies are trying to disorganize national government.  They will come to you, they want you to protest, ask those who want you to protest where are their children. Why must you be the one to protest and to protest against what? This government is our government, the government of President Bola Tinubu is our government. So nobody from Southeast will protest. We are not aggrieved, we have hope.

Read also: Nigeria’s Inflation Skyrockets to 34.19% in June 2024

Whatever they say, this government is barely one year in office. Yes we are aware of the hardship, we are aware things are hard, but I promise you that the president is working so hard to release money to the people, to deliver infrastructure to the people and to release and increase food security to the people. Follow your leaders, work with your leaders.”

Instagram Reactions to Gov. Hope Uzodinma’s statement

cynthiaikeofficial commented, “Dear P Tinubu, do not listen to this man. Igbos are not protesting in your Regime not because of what this man said but because you deserve to finish your tenure in peace. He knows Igbos will not protest so please don’t mind him coming out here to speak like his the reason the Igbos are not protesting…”

officiallyunderworld commented, “He is right, nobody should protest against Mr president, he is still one year in office and mean while the hunger is not that severe to start protesting, cut the way you eat from 3 times to once, Mr president is not the only president that is bad for you to protest, just one year in office, he never even start to look una the complain, any one engineering this protest will carry the consequences of its outcome. For you to buy data come online means there is no hunger in Nigeria, you people should stop making it look bad, hotels dey full every weekend, yet una say no money. Mr president we the indigenous people of Igbo tribe is solidly behind you,we will come for anybody that come for you ✌️

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News

Supreme Court Ruling Bolsters LG’s Independence: Tinubu Applauds Decision

In a landmark decision poised to reshape Nigeria’s governance landscape, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lauded a Supreme Court judgment affirming the constitutional rights of local governments. This ruling directly addresses the long-standing issue of financial autonomy that has crippled local development for over four decades.

Historically, state governors have controlled the funds allocated to local governments from the federal pool, significantly hindering grassroots development. This central control has left many communities without essential infrastructure such as roads, water supply, and healthcare facilities. The Supreme Court’s judgment now mandates that local governments receive their funding directly from the Federation Account, bypassing state interference.

President Tinubu has highlighted this ruling as a critical step toward fulfilling his administration’s commitment to enhancing local governance. During his campaign, Tinubu promised to recalibrate the federation revenue allocation system to empower states and local governments more effectively. This initiative is central to his Renewed Hope campaign manifesto, which advocates for a more equitable distribution of resources among the three tiers of government, thereby enhancing governance and socio-economic development at the grassroots level.

“This judgement stands as a resounding affirmation that we can use legitimate means of redress to restructure our country and restructure our economy to make Nigeria a better place to live in and a fairer society for all of our people,”

President bola ahmed tinubu

The implications of this judgment are far-reaching. With financial autonomy, local governments can independently plan and execute development projects tailored to their communities’ specific needs. This autonomy is especially crucial for sectors like agriculture, which depend heavily on local government support for value chain development and economic contributions. Improved local governance will likely accelerate the provision of essential services and infrastructure, significantly raising the living standards for residents.

This judicial decision aligns with ongoing legislative efforts by the 10th National Assembly to amend the 1999 Constitution. These amendments aim to solidify the financial and operational independence of local governments, ensuring that they are not merely autonomous on paper but also in practice. This legislative support will help dismantle the stranglehold that state governors have had on local government funds, fostering a more transparent and accountable system of governance.

President Tinubu’s administration is committed to implementing this Supreme Court ruling effectively. This move is anticipated to foster a new era of grassroots empowerment and development, breaking the cycle of political and financial control exerted by state governors over local governments. The judgment marks a significant victory for local governance in Nigeria, setting the stage for more equitable resource distribution and enhanced socio-economic development across the nation.

The Supreme Court’s decision is a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey toward effective local governance. President Tinubu’s support for this ruling underscores his dedication to improving governance and delivering on his campaign promises, paving the way for substantial improvements in the lives of Nigerians at the grassroots level.

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