By Raphael Atuu, Abuja
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‎The founder of Dominion Chapel International Churches, Archbishop JohnPrasie Daniel, on Sunday urged the Federal Government to urgently address rising insecurity and the economic hardship triggered by high fuel prices, warning that Nigerians must be alive to participate in the 2027 general elections.

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‎Speaking with journalists in Abuja at the end of a two-day event marking his 66th birthday, the cleric said worsening killings and the cost-of-living crisis had put citizens under severe pressure.
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‎“I want to plead with this government that please, there is pressure in the land. There is suffering in the land. Cushion the effect of this oil crisis,” he said.
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‎Daniel linked the current fuel price surge partly to global oil market disruptions, including tensions in the Middle East, but insisted that the government must take deliberate steps to mitigate the impact on citizens.
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‎“Even though they cannot be blamed completely because this oil crisis came as a result of the Iran war, why can’t they think of how to soften the prices of oil? Because if oil prices go up, everything is affected—food is affected, transportation is affected, and the suffering continues,” he added.
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‎Nigeria has in recent months faced persistent increases in petrol prices following subsidy removal and fluctuations in global crude oil prices. The development has triggered a spike in transportation and food costs, worsening inflationary pressures and eroding household incomes.
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‎The cleric criticised political elites for being disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.
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‎“Politicians don’t know about that, they just go to the stations and then government pay. But the common man out there on the street is not finding things easy,” he said.
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‎On security, Daniel expressed concern over the rising spate of killings, kidnappings, banditry and terrorism across parts of the country, warning that the situation could undermine the electoral process if not urgently addressed.
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‎“Politics is on, election is coming, 2027, and the killings are increasing. Must they kill us all before the election will hold?” he queried.
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‎He stressed that safeguarding lives and property remains the core responsibility of government.
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‎“The primary purpose of government is the protection of lives and property. So let them do the needful. Elections will come and go, but we must live in order for us to do election,” he said.
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‎Calling for decisive action, the cleric added, “Government should stop whatever they need to do to stop this banditry, to stop this terrorism, to stop this armed robbery, this kidnapping that has become like a business in our nation.”
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‎He also urged political actors to avoid inciting violence ahead of the polls, noting that instability would ultimately be counterproductive to all stakeholders.
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‎“If you raise this agitation and people are killed, who will you rule over…? So let peace reign. Let Nigerians go to bed with their eyes closed,” he said.
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‎Also speaking, the Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), FCT chapter, Apostle Israel Abam, called on citizens to take responsibility for the country’s future by making informed choices ahead of the elections.
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‎“Elections are at the corner. The politicians are out in the game. What are we doing as a people? Are we going to wait for the bag of rice… or are we going to do right by our own experiences?” he asked.
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‎Abam urged Nigerians to reject inducement and vote based on competence and integrity.
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‎“We cannot wait for change to come from outside. We must take the bull by the horn and say no to what we don’t accept and say yes to what is good for us as a people,” he said.
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‎He emphasised that while hope is important, it must be matched with action. “Hope is good, but hope not deployed will produce nothing… Let’s rise up and do what is right and turn the hands of the clock back for our nation.

By Raphael Atuu, Abuja

Labour leaders and stakeholders across Nigeria have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deepen collaboration with organized labour unions to accelerate national development and economic stability.

The call was made by the National President of the Amalgamated Union of Road Mechanics and Technicians of Nigeria (AURMTON), Dr.

Oseni Suleiman, during an interview in Abuja as part of activities marking this year’s International Workers’ Day.

Dr. Suleiman stressed that organized labour remains a critical pillar in nation building, noting that no country can achieve meaningful progress without the active contribution of its workforce.

“We are partners in progress. The labour sector is unique because it brings together both public and private workers under one umbrella, united by a shared vision for national growth,” he said.

He urged the federal government to prioritize policies that support workers’ welfare, including fair wages, improved working conditions, and sustainable employment opportunities.

According to him, strengthening ties between government and labour unions would not only improve productivity but also enhance national revenue generation and economic resilience.

Dr. Suleiman also highlighted the role of labour unions in maintaining industrial harmony, noting that effective engagement with workers helps prevent strikes and disruptions in key sectors.

The union leader appealed to federal and state governments, as well as private sector employers, to create a more enabling environment for workers.

He pointed out that rising inflation and economic challenges have placed significant pressure on Nigerian workers, making it necessary for authorities to introduce policies that cushion the impact.

“Workers need to be motivated through improved welfare packages and policies that reflect current economic realities,” he added.

Also speaking, the Chairman of AURMTON, Abuja Chapter, Chief Michael Ndubuisi, congratulated Nigerian workers for their resilience and dedication to national development.
“This is our day both public and private sector workers. Our contributions to nation building cannot be measured,” he said.

Chief Ndubuisi described Workers’ Day as a moment of reflection and recognition of the sacrifices made by workers across various sectors of the economy.

He emphasized that the growing unity within the labour movement presents an opportunity for stronger engagement with the government.

According to him, a united labour front would be better positioned to advocate policies that benefit workers and promote national development.

“The loyalty of workers is to the country. As the father of the nation, we appeal to the President to partner with both private and public workers through policies that will improve output and increase revenue,” he stated.

By David Torough, Abuja

Joy, elegance and heartfelt celebration filled the air as Mark Akwaya, son of DAILY ASSET Newspaper publisher, Dr. Cletus Akwaya, solemnized his union in a memorable wedding ceremony.

On a radiant Saturday in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, Mark exchanged vows with his beloved, Charity, at the Catholic Youth Centre, sealing their love in the sacred covenant of marriage before family, friends, and well-wishers.

Officiating the ceremony, Rev. Fr. Joseph Awuhe described marriage as a divine institution ordained by God.

In his homily, he urged the couple to build their home on selflessness, faithfulness, and mutual respect.

He encouraged them to remain steadfast in companionship and to uphold the sanctity of their vows.

“Let love, patience, compassion, and forgiveness be the pillars of your union,” he admonished, noting that these virtues are essential for a lasting and fulfilling marriage.

The celebration continued in grand style at the reception, where dignitaries and guests gathered to honor the newlyweds.

Former Benue State Governor, Dr. Gabriel Suswan, who chaired the occasion, advised the couple to remain focused and committed, urging them to resist distractions that could threaten their union.

Also speaking, the Chairlady of the occasion and former Benue State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Elizabeth Ugoh, emphasized the importance of effective communication, respect for family ties and a prayerful life.

She encouraged the couple to allow God to guide their journey together.

Father of the groom, Dr. Cletus Akwaya, who was visibly excited said he was fulfilled and appreciated all those who contributed in making the event a success.

Radiating happiness, the couple shared that their bond was built on kindness, love, patience, and a shared reverence for God—qualities they believe will sustain their marriage for years to come.
The event was a beautiful blend of solemnity and celebration, leaving lasting memories in the hearts of all who attended.