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Group Berates Gov. Soludo Over Poor Handling Of Electricity Concerns In Anambra

By
Joseph Albert
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…. congratulates Abia Governor, Otti’s transparency in governance

Pro-Biafran group, Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) has strongly condemned what it termey “lackluster approach” of Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, towards addressing the pressing electricity concerns in Anambra state.

The group said despite glaring need for decisive action, the Soludo’s leadership has faltered, leaving Anambra people in the dark.

Giving the verdict in a statement issued by BDFCG Spokesperson, Prosper Odinga, the group said Governor Soludo’s actions have unfortunately not aligned with the best interests of Ndigbo.

It said upon the enormous support he received during his election as the Governor of the State, he has continued to neglect the welfare of the people.

“Last year, Gov Soludo signed an MOU with EEDC regarding 24-hour electricity—a move the Biafra De Facto Customary Government denounced. Today, there is no sign to indicate that he understands the importance of transitioning electricity regulation from the exclusive list to the concurrent list. He has been closely associated with the owners of EEDC, stifling all business initiatives in Anambra State”.

BDFCG said it initially believed that Soludo would represent the political face of Biafraland due to his distinguished tenure in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and his expertise as a first-class economist, but regretted that the Governor’s recent actions have revealed shortcomings in his leadership abilities, urging all Biafrans to prepare for a day of reckoning.

In light of recent developments, the group congratulated Governor Alex Otti of Abia state for his commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, adding that audit of the state account of the previous administration has unveiled the extent of corruption perpetrated by the former Governors, urging the Governor to uphold the principles of justice and integrity by making the audit findings available to the public.
“It is evident that these individuals are nothing but common criminals who must be held accountable for their actions”.

The statement reads in full:
The Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) strongly condemns the lackluster approach of Prof Chukwuma Soludo towards addressing the pressing electricity concerns in Anambra state. Despite the glaring need for decisive action, Prof Soludo’s leadership has faltered, leaving our people in the dark.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s actions have unfortunately not aligned with the best interests of Ndigbo. Upon the enormous support he received during his election as the Governor of the State, he has continued to neglect the welfare of the people. Last year, Gov Soludo signed an MOU with EEDC regarding 24-hour electricity—a move the Biafra De Facto Customary Government denounced. Today, there is no sign to indicate that he understands the importance of transitioning electricity regulation from the exclusive list to the concurrent list. He has been closely associated with the owners of EEDC, stifling all business initiatives in Anambra State. The BDFCG initially believed that Soludo would represent the political face of Biafraland due to his distinguished tenure in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and his expertise as a first-class economist. However, his recent actions have revealed shortcomings in his leadership abilities. The BDFCG urges all Biafrans to prepare for a day of reckoning.

In light of recent developments, the BDFCG extends heartfelt congratulations to Governor Alex Otti of Abia state for his commitment to transparency and accountability in governance. The audit of the State account of the previous administration has unveiled the extent of corruption perpetrated by the former Governors. It is evident that these individuals are nothing but common criminals who must be held accountable for their actions. We urge Alex Otti to uphold the principles of justice and integrity by making the audit findings available to the public.

Furthermore, the Biafra De Facto Customary Government commends Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu state for his swift establishment of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission within a remarkably short period. The transfer of regulatory power from NERC to ESERC signifies a pivotal step towards ending the reign of the oppressive monopolist known as EEDC. The days of exploitation and impunity under EEDC’s control must come to an end, and we stand in solidarity with Governor Mbah’s efforts to ensure a fair and equitable electricity distribution system in Enugu State.

It is imperative to recognize electricity as a fundamental public good that demands government intervention and investment. The BDFCG firmly believes that achieving 24-hour electricity supply at affordable rates is essential for the industrialization and prosperity of Biafraland. We call upon progressive governors in our region to join hands with us in reclaiming control of our land and its vast resources.

We emphasize that stable electricity cannot be guaranteed as long as decisions regarding oil and gas exploration and production remain in the hands of authorities in Abuja. True autonomy and self-determination are prerequisites for achieving our vision of a prosperous and self-sufficient Biafraland.

The Biafra De Facto Customary Government remains resolute in its commitment to championing the interests of our people and advancing our collective aspirations for a brighter future.

Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: biafradefactogov@gmail.com
Website: www.bdfcg.org

Pupil dies ‘while feeding’ in Abuja school

By
Adamma Ikeogu
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Tragedy struck at BrickHall Schools located in the Cadastral Zone B11, Kaura in Abuja, on Wednesday, when a four-year-old pupil, Miguel Ovoke, died during the school’s feeding hours.

According to the death certificate dated April 24, 2024, issued by Excel Specialist Hospital, Abuja, which was sighted by our correspondent, Ovoke was brought to the hospital by his teachers around 11 am in an unconscious state.

The medical report, signed by Dr. Akinwande Ajayi, on behalf of the medical director, indicated that he was brought in, “on account of aspiration on meat while feeding at school.”

The hospital said upon examination, the medical team found that the boy’s pupils were fixed and dilated, with a nonreactive response to light.

His peripheral pulses were said to be “impalpable, blood pressure was unrecordable, and there was no cardiopulmonary activity or respiratory excursions,” the report indicated, noting that all the efforts of the medical team to resuscitate the boy failed.

The report concluded that he was “Brought in Dead.”

The parents of the deceased, suspecting foul play, had contacted a lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, to handle the case on their behalf.

Adeyanju confirmed the development to our correspondent on Thursday.

“We are writing a petition to the state Commissioner of Police on the matter,” the lawyer said.

Miguel Ovoke was said to have been dropped off at school in the morning, only for his mother to receive a call from her husband, said to be currently in Aba for a business transaction, informing her that Miguel’s school had called him to come, according to Adeyanju.

“So the wife quickly rushed to the school, only to find out that Miguel was dead. The school claimed that he had experienced a seizure and died, but she was told by other pupils who saw him dead in the toilet that they had informed the teachers he was having a seizure. However, the teachers told the four-year-old boy to go and ‘sneeze it out’ in the toilet, where he died.

“When the mother requested the CCTV footage, they refused to provide it. However, with the intervention of the Garki DPO, they claimed the CCTV footage had crashed. Only today’s footage crashed, while other CCTVs were working. The footage to show what happened to Miguel is not there, which clearly implies they have wiped it. They even blamed the mother for reporting to the police. As of now, they have failed to report the matter to the police,”.

Attempts to get the reaction of the school authorities as of the time of filing this report yielded no fruit as it had yet to respond to an email sent to its known email address.

Our correspondent also called and sent messages to the Head of School, Gloria Ijezie, to get the school’s reaction. However, these efforts proved abortive as the calls to her line were redirected and the messages sent to her as of press time remained unanswered.

The FCT Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, said the police had begun an investigation into the matter.

“The incident was reported today, April 25, 2024, at the Wuye Divisional Police headquarters. An investigation has commenced and the outcome will be communicated soon.”

 

Source: Punch Newspaper

Use of firewood, charcoal kill 98,000 Nigerian women annually- Expert

By
Adamma Ikeogu
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The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Gas 360, Emmanuel Uwandu on Friday revealed that over 98,000 Nigerian women die annually from the use of firewood and charcoal.

Uwandu added that about 21,000 women die annually from the usage in the Niger Delta.

He stated this in his keynote presentation during the 20,000 metric tonnes of Liquified Petroleum Gas Depot Project ceremony organised by Windek Energy Limited held at Atabrikang Aquaha Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

He revealed further that cooking with firewood and charcoal is equivalent to smoking 20 packages of cigarettes, noting that such is what Nigerian women go through on a daily basis.

Uwandu said, “Cooking with firewood, and charcoal is equivalent to smoking 20 packages of cigarettes For an average smoker that is too much, that is what women in Nigeria have to deal with daily.

“In Nigeria 98, 000 women die annually from the use of firewood and charcoal and across the 774 local governments that translates to about 2,700 deaths annually.

“In Niger Delta alone 21, 000 women die from the use of firewood and charcoal. If we bring that home to Akwa Ibom State 31 Local governments 75 women die every year from the use of firewood and charcoal”.

While noting that cooking with ‘dirty’ fuel is the highest killer, the MD lamented that attention is given to malaria and HIV Aids while nobody is talking about dirty fuel.

“Today, in Nigeria, cooking with dirty fuel is the highest killer of Nigerians but for some reason malaria and HIV get the attention, and nobody talks about cooking with dirty fuel. Globally, 4.6bn dollars was provided to fight against malaria and HIV for Nigeria but clean cooking receives less than 200 million dollars, we have to do more” He stated.

He called on Nigerian governments both at the national and sub-national levels to unlock global opportunities for clean cooking adding that what the global committee wants is to “see clean action plans on policy and support for the government to transform their communities from dirty fuel to clean cooking.”

 

Source: Punch Newspaper

Junior Pope’s mother believes her son was murdered, says AGN president

By
Adamma Ikeogu
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President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas, has revealed how Junior Pope’s mother refused to believe her son drowned to death.

Recall that the late actor died on April 10 along with four other team members while commuting by water for Adamma Luke’s next film “The Other Side of Life”.

 

In a recent interview, Emeka Rollas discussed Junior Pope’s Cameroonian mother’s surprise that her son drowned.

According to Emeka Rollas, CPR was conducted on Junior Pope immediately, he was brought out of the water after four hours.
“Anybody that said they didn’t perform CPR on Jnr Pope is a liar. He was brought out dead after spending over 4 hours under the water,” he said.
Source: Nation Newspaper

Suspected illegal security guards arrested in Anambra

By
Adamma Ikeogu
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The NSCDC said the suspects were arrested during a recent crackdown on unlicensed private security guards in Awka, the state capital.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Anambra State has arrested eight illegal security guards in the state.

The NSCDC Commandant in Anambra State, Olatunde Maku, announced this on Thursday while parading the suspects, according to a statement by the agency’s spokesperson in the state, Edwin Okadigbo, on Friday.

Mr Maku said the suspects were arrested during a recent crackdown on unlicensed private security guards in Awka, the state capital.

The commandant warned operators of illegal private security outfits in Anambra State to desist from the act or facing the consequences.

He maintained that NSCDC, as the regulatory body of the private security guards, will continue to monitor their activities especially considering the rising insecurity in the state.

The arrests were made in response to a tip-off about their activities in addition to the need to sanitize the security industry by clamping down on unlicensed private security companies in the state, he said.

“These suspects were apprehended following a raid carried out earlier on Thursday 25th April, 2024 by operatives of the NSCDC in Awka, Anambra State,” he said.

Mr Maku stressed that the arrest of the suspects was part of the mandate of the NSCDC and vowed to continue delivering on the mandate of the agency in Nigeria under the leadership of Ahmed Abubakar Audi, a professor.

“We are here in continuation of the execution of the NSCDC mandate, and we have not left any stone unturned in discharging our responsibilities,” he said.

Mr Maku gave the names of the suspects as Uche Eze, 34, Patrick Nwoye, 27, and Okafor Chibuike, 21 – all males and working for RSS security outfit.

They also include Kingsley Asuauo, 20, Blessed Mfonu, 22, Ikechukwu Emeka, 21, and Amu Emmanuel, 23, – also males who were providing security services in some unnamed hotels in the state.

The eighth suspect, Tochukwu Chukwuemeka, 27, is an unlicensed member of G7 of the Anambra Vigilante Group security outfit, according to the statement.

Four pump action guns with 16 live cartridges were also recovered from the suspects, the NSCDC said.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that some of the arrested suspects were impersonating the Anambra Vigilante Group while others were hired by hotels to provide security services, despite knowing that the outfits were not licensed or registered,” Mr Maku said.

He stressed that the raid which was still ongoing will help to prevent the proliferation of illegal security outfits and reduce the risk of security breaches and criminal activities in the state.

“With this tough stance, the (NSCDC) command aims to restore sanity in the operations of the private security sector and ensure the safety and security of all Anambra residents.

“This arrest and recovery of weapons is a significant achievement in the effort to reduce crime in the state,” he said.

The NSCDC chief urged residents of the state to report any suspicious activities or illegal private guards’ outfits to the agency for prompt action.

 

Source: Premium Times Newspaper

DSTV price hike: Five alternatives Nigerians are opting for

By
Adamma Ikeogu
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Broadcasting company, Multichoice, on Wednesday, increased the prices of its offerings in Nigeria four months after its last increment.

The company reviewed prices in its packages across the board. The new prices will take effect from May 1, 2024.

With the latest price hike, the DStv Premium package increased from N29,500 to N37,000. Similarly, the DStv Compact+ went up from N19,800 to N25,000 while the Compact package increased from N12,500 to N15,700.

The Comfam package moved from N7,400 to N9,300. Yanga package moved up from 4,200 to N5,100 while Padi package increased from N2,950 to N3,600. HDPVR was increased from N4,000 to N5,000, the Access Fees package from N4,000 to N5,000, and XtraView moved from N4,000 to N5,000.

Meanwhile, the Gotv Supa+ package moved from N12,500 to N15,700, Supa package from N7,600 to N9,600, and Max package from N5,700 to N7,200.

While the Jolli package was increased from N3,950 to N4,850, the Jinja package moved from N2,700 to N3,300, and Smallie package from N1,300 to N1,575.

The upward review of the broadcasting company’s offerings has stirred mixed reactions online, with social media users arguing that the increment was coming at the wrong time.

Reacting to the hike on X, a social media user, Kelvin Odanz, who tweets as @MrOdanz, asked Nigerians to explore other options rather than complain about the increase.

He wrote, “If you can afford stable Internet, there are so many other services you can use aside from DSTV. For football and other entertainment. Because aside football, nothing dey DSTV. Explore these options and stop whining.

Sharing his sentiment, @Letter_to_Jack said, “Electricity tariffs increased: Small rage. Cement prices through the roof: Small rage. Diesel to 1700/L at a point: Small rage. Indomie at 13k = small rage. Dstv increases prices: OUTRAGE! At this point, you’d think DSTV/MultiChoice is the only trigger Nigerians have.”

On his part, David Ofor, said while the price increase was understandable, it was important for the broadcasting company to justify it by offering value for the money.

“They should justify the payments made, more so, why are they increasing now that Diesel prices are coming down and Naira is strengthening?”

While the debate continues, look at other alternatives Nigerians can consider for their pleasure.

DSTV — Despite the mixed reactions that greeted the increase, many Nigerians will continue with the broadcasting company. With several increments, Multichoice still boasts customers’ loyalty among other alternatives offering the same services.

Star Times — The company, a major player in the Asian country’s Pay-TV market, has a considerable market share in some African countries, including Nigeria and Kenya.

SLTV — SLTV is a premier satellite television company based in Nigeria. This direct-to-home satellite TV platform is operated by Metro Digital Limited has over 50 HD channels with 10 Sports channels that show live football matches from the Premier League, Champions League, Laliga, Seria A, and UEL among others with a monthly subscription ranging from N5,000 and N2,500.

Android TV Box — Android TV Box is entertainment equipment that is connected to a TV set that allows you to enjoy your favorite films, videos, series, live programmes, and games.

Source : Punch Newspaper

UNN Slams An Indefinite Suspension On A Professor Over Sexual Abuse.

By
bvichannel1
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The University of Nigeria (UNN) has slammed an indefinite suspension on Mr. Mfonobong David Udoudom, a lecturer in its General Studies division, who was caught in a video allegedly harassing a female student.

A viral video of the said lecturer stripped to his boxers made the rounds earlier in the day, eliciting varying reactions. In the clip, the lecturer was seen being mocked over the act. The female student alleged to have been harassed was however not shown in the video, nor her name mentioned.

 

Reacting to the development, Acting Public Relations Officer of the University Okwun Omeaku, in a statement disclosed that the indefinite suspension is with immediate effect pending the outcome of a disciplinary panel constituted by the University to investigate the incident.

“For the records, the University of Nigeria has a zero tolerance for sexual misconducts involving our staff and students.

“UNN is among the few universities in the country that has a Sexual Harassment Policy, which guides the relationship between our staff and students in particular and among our male and female staff.

“As a university, we are committed to protecting our students from any form of abuse and exploitation, and the University Management will not hesitate to punish Mr. Mfonobong David Udoudom, according to our rules, if he is found guilty by our disciplinary panel,” Omeaku stated.

Breaking: Dana Air confirms Lagos airport runway incident

By
bvichannel1
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The management of Dana Air has confirmed reports that one of its aircraft with registration number 5N BKI skidded off the runway at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos on Tuesday morning.

The airline made the confirmation in a statement on Tuesday.

Expressing regret, the airline noted that the aircraft which flew from Abuja to Lagos, skidded off the runway in an attempt to land.

However, it expressed relief that no casualty was recorded, stating that it had informed the Accident Investigation Bureau and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority of the incident.

The statement read, “Dana Air regrets to inform the public of a runway incursion involving one of our aircraft, registration number 5N BKI, which was flying from Abuja to Lagos today 23/04/24

“We are relieved to confirm that all 83 passengers and crew onboard the flight disembarked safely without injuries or scare as the crew handled the situation with utmost professionalism.”

“We have also updated the AIB and NCAA on the incident and the aircraft involved has been grounded by our maintenance team for further investigation.”

The management thanked the airport authorities and its crew for ensuring the safety of all passengers onboard the aircraft.

The statement added, “We wish to thank the airport authorities, and our crew for their very swift response in ensuring the safe disembarkation of all passengers following the incident and our sincere apologies and appreciation to the passengers on the affected flight for their patience and understanding.

“We wish to reassure our passengers that their safety will always be our top priority, and we are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

Recall that in January 2018, a commercial aircraft belonging to Dana Air used its left wing to hit a fence at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Sources at the airport and passengers onboard the flight told our correspondent that no injury was recorded, but blamed the aircraft’s pilot for the incident.

Source : punch

I Will Establish All-inclusive Youth Network To Address Igbo Challenges – Chukwuagbanarinam, Ag. Chairman ADF-YL

By
Joseph Albert
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The Acting Chairman of Alaigbo Development Foundation, Youth League, ADF-YL, Comrade Osita Chukwuagbanarinam, has promised to establish an all inclusive Igbo Youth network that will synergize with other Igbo Youth-based formations in order to have a holistic approach to the challenges of Ndigbo.

In his acceptance speech directed to the Chairman, ADF Congress and Transition Committee members, the ADF-YL Executive and members, the entire membership of AlaIgbo Development Foundation (ADF), and the entire Igbo nation, Chukwuagbanarinam expressed delight for being nominated to serve in the capacity of Acting Chairman ADF-YL, saying it is for the salvation of AlaIgbo from the shackles of neo-enslavement and injustices.

He said having sat down and studied the enormous tasks involved in his call for duty, he has resolved to give his energy, sincerity, respect, justice and brotherly love to effectively serve Ndigbo and ADF at this critical moment in history and wilderness wandering, trusting in the supernatural help of God.

“Within the period of my Acting position, I will establish an all inclusive Igbo Youth network. that will synergize with other Igbo Youth-based Formations to have a holistic approach to the challenges of Ndigbo”, he said.

Electricity: NERC Transfers Regulatory To Enugu Government electricity

By
bvichannel1
-

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has officially transferred regulatory oversight of the Enugu electricity market to the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC).

This transfer, effective from May 1, 2024, marks the first time NERC has delegated such authority to a state-owned regulatory body.

This strategic shift was detailed in a memo released by NERC, bearing signatures from its Chairman, Sanusi Garba, and Commissioner for Legal, Licensing, and Compliance, Dafe Akpeneye, dated April 22, 2024.

State regulation of Electricity

The transfer is a direct result of recent legislative changes that have decentralized the power sector.

These changes were set into motion in March 2023 when former President Muhammadu Buhari signed amendments to Nigeria’s constitution that removed power generation, transmission, and distribution from the exclusive legislative list, effectively ending the federal government’s sole jurisdiction over these areas.

Under the new legal framework established by the Electricity Act 2023, states now have the authority to manage and regulate their electricity markets.

The amended Paragraph 14(b) Part II of the Second Schedule to the 1999 Constitution empowers state governments to legislate on electricity provision within their territories.

According to NERC, the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) now holds the exclusive authority to set and adopt end-user electricity tariffs within Enugu State, tailoring these charges to local conditions and requirements.

While EERC manages local tariff methodologies, any electricity sourced from grid-connected plants and the related tariffs for generation and transmission services must still receive approval from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), ensuring alignment with national energy policies.
Ultimately, the final tariffs approved by EERC for consumers in Enugu will be definitive for the state, with the Enugu State Government responsible for supporting and implementing tariff-related policies, ensuring that electricity pricing is both fair and attuned to the specific needs of the state’s residents.

The memo from NERC states, “This regulatory instrument may be cited as the Order of Transfer of Regulatory Oversight of the Electricity Market in Enugu State from NERC to the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC). This Order shall take effect from May 1, 2024.”

Furthermore, the memo outlines the framework under which states can establish their regulatory authorities and manage the transition of oversight.

According to Section 230 of the Electricity Act 2023, states intending to regulate their electricity markets must notify NERC and the relevant distribution licensee.
NERC is then required to prepare a transition plan within 45 days, detailing the transfer of regulatory responsibilities to the state regulator—a process to be completed within six months of notification.
This decentralization initiative aims to enhance efficiency and responsiveness in the management of electricity services by aligning regulatory oversight more closely with local needs and conditions.

What this means for EEDC

Under the new regulatory order, the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) is mandated to establish a subsidiary, known as EEDC SubCo, under the Companies and Allied Matters Act.

This subsidiary will be responsible for the localized supply and distribution of electricity exclusively within Enugu State.
EEDC must finalize the incorporation of EEDC SubCo within 60 days from the order’s effective date, after which the subsidiary is required to secure a license from the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC) for its operations.
Additionally, EEDC is tasked with clearly defining the geographical boundaries of its network within Enugu State, ensuring that it operates independently of networks in neighboring states by installing boundary meters at all crossing points.
This move is aimed at establishing a self-contained and well-defined electricity distribution framework within the state, enhancing management and regulatory oversight.

What this means in general

The devolution of regulatory powers to states like Enugu represents a significant shift towards a more localized management of electricity services.

This means that states can now tailor their energy policies to better suit the specific needs of their residents, promoting more efficient and sustainable energy use within their jurisdictions.

Role of NERC Moving Forward: NERC will continue to play a pivotal role as the central regulator for inter-state and international electricity transactions, ensuring compliance with national standards and managing overarching issues that transcend state borders.

This includes the regulation of large-scale power generation plants, high voltage transmission networks, and the overall system operation of the national grid.
State Regulation Specifics: States will specifically regulate the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity within their territories.

This includes licensing local power projects, managing state-owned power assets, and overseeing retail electricity distribution and pricing.
The states will also be responsible for promoting rural electrification projects and integrating renewable energy sources into their local grids.
NERC’s move to cede control to EERC signifies a significant shift in Nigeria’s approach to energy regulation, potentially serving as a model for other states in the federation.

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