In a bid to cushion the impact of rising electricity costs, the Presidential Power Sector Reform Coordination Working Group has recommended targeted subsidies for vulnerable Nigerians. The council emphasized that while subsidy reforms are essential for long-term sector viability, immediate protections are needed for low-income households.
Speaking after a policy review meeting in Abuja, members of the council stressed the importance of balancing reform with social responsibility. “We must ensure that the poorest Nigerians are not left in the dark—literally and figuratively,” said a senior official from the group.
The call comes amid ongoing adjustments to the electricity tariff regime, which has drawn public outcry over affordability. While the government has argued that subsidy removal will attract investment and improve power delivery, critics warn that millions of Nigerians could be pushed further into energy poverty without a social safety net.
The council’s proposal includes a framework for identifying and supporting vulnerable groups through targeted billing systems, lifeline tariffs, and smart metering to ensure fair access.
Energy analysts have praised the recommendation as a pragmatic approach. “Subsidy reform doesn’t have to mean complete withdrawal,” said Dr. Uche Maduka, an energy policy expert. “The key is to protect those who need help the most while creating space for the market to function efficiently.”
Government officials are expected to review the recommendations in the coming weeks as they refine the country’s power reform roadmap. If adopted, the plan could shape the next phase of electricity pricing and social protection in Nigeria.
Police in Bauchi State have arrested a man accused of sexually assaulting his teenage stepdaughter, while also intervening to stop an enraged mob from lynching him. The suspect, whose name was withheld by authorities for security reasons, was taken into custody in the Yelwa area of Bauchi metropolis.
The arrest followed a tip-off from concerned residents who discovered the alleged crime and quickly mobilized to confront the suspect. Eyewitnesses say the situation nearly turned deadly as a large crowd gathered, calling for jungle justice.
“Our officers acted swiftly to protect the suspect from the mob and ensure he faces the full force of the law,” said SP Ahmed Wakil, spokesperson for the Bauchi State Police Command. “We understand the anger of the community, but we urge everyone to allow the legal process to take its course.”
The teenage victim is currently receiving medical care and counseling, according to police sources. Authorities have also launched an investigation to gather more evidence and ensure justice is served.
Human rights advocates have condemned the assault and praised the police for preventing mob violence, urging stronger measures to protect vulnerable individuals and deter similar abuses.
Community leaders in Yelwa have called for calm, emphasizing the importance of due process and supporting the victim and her family through this traumatic experience. The suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.
A fresh wave of violence has rocked Imo State, as gunmen killed a man and abducted his wife in a late-night attack in the Umulolo community of Okigwe Local Government Area. The brazen assault has left residents reeling and sparked renewed calls for stronger security measures in the region.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the couple’s residence in the early hours of the morning, shooting the man dead on the spot before whisking his wife away to an unknown destination. Local sources identified the victim as a well-known businessman in the area.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye confirmed the incident, stating that security operatives had launched a manhunt for the attackers. “We are working tirelessly to ensure the safe release of the abducted woman and to bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.
The community remains on edge following the incident, with residents calling for immediate action from security agencies. “We are living in fear,” said one resident. “This is not the first time we’ve seen this kind of attack, and it’s devastating.”
The attack adds to the growing insecurity in parts of Imo State, where kidnapping and armed violence have become increasingly common in recent years. Authorities have promised to bolster patrols and strengthen collaboration with local vigilante groups to restore calm.
As the search for the kidnapped woman continues, families and community members have appealed for her safe return, even as they mourn the loss of her husband.
The United States has conveyed its deep condolences to the people of Niger following the devastating floods that claimed dozens of lives and displaced thousands. In an official statement, the US Embassy in Niamey emphasized solidarity with the victims and their families during this challenging time.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and the widespread damage caused by the recent floods in Niger,” the statement read. “The United States stands with the people of Niger and is committed to supporting immediate relief efforts and long-term recovery.”
Heavy rains in recent weeks have caused rivers to overflow, submerging entire communities and destroying critical infrastructure. Local authorities report that the floods have affected several regions, with the capital Niamey among the hardest hit.
The US government has pledged emergency assistance through humanitarian agencies and local partners, focusing on shelter, clean water, and medical care for displaced families. “Our priority is to help meet urgent needs and work with Nigerien authorities to strengthen resilience against future disasters,” the embassy said.
As the floodwaters recede, aid groups are scrambling to provide essential relief to those affected, amid fears of disease outbreaks and food shortages. International support, including the US commitment, is seen as crucial in helping Niger recover and rebuild.
The Nigerien government has declared a state of emergency in the worst-hit areas and appealed for global assistance. Recovery efforts are expected to take months, with thousands of residents still in need of safe shelter and essential services.
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