Newspaper Headlines: Traders count losses after food blockade and ACF backs shoot-on-sight order
Reports that Nigeria is set to commence its COVID-19 vaccination made the headlines in many national newspapers. The reactions that trailed the shoot-on-sight order of President Muhammadu Buhari also made the headlines.
The Nation reports that the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) backed the order of the president that bandits wielding AK-47 rifles be shot on sight. However, the newspaper says some senior advocates of Nigeria (SANs) faulted the directive on the grounds that it is a “blanket order” open to abuse. The Nation also reports that Buhari, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and governors will take COVID-19 vaccine jabs.
The Guardian says extended production cuts by Oil Producing Energy Countries may push the price of crude oil per barrel above $79, fuelling petrol price hike concerns. The newspaper says OPEC cuts appear to be a blessing to the country in terms of improved earnings but may end up becoming a problem for the nation. The Guardian also reports that ex-military chiefs and security experts slammed north-east governors for demanding the use of mercenaries in the fight against insurgency.
Daily Sun says the senate has named the sponsors of terrorism and banditry in the country. The newspaper also reports that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) responded to the comment of Ahmad Gumi, Islamic cleric, that there would be no peace in the country without amnesty for bandits.
The Nigerian Tribune on its cover page reports the comment of Senate President Ahmad Lawan that drug barons are the sponsors of terrorists and bandits. The newspaper reports the comment of Gumi that if those who instigated the civil war were pardoned, bandits should also be pardoned.
The Punch on its cover page reports on Nigeria’s vaccine distribution strategy. The newspaper says the vaccination will start today, while Buhari and Osinbajo are expected to take the jab, publicly, on Saturday. The Punch also reports that five fake COVID-19 certificate racketeers were arrested at Lagos airport.
Business Day says the failed food blockade confirms the law of economics. The newspaper reports that the blockade of food supplies to the south — largest market of northern food products — backfired and that some traders and farmers are counting their losses. The newspaper says electricity consumers in the country are battling double tragedy as they have to contend with bad service and unresolved complaints.
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