News
Locals in coastal exclave have to drive through Canada to reach US
Tensions are on the rise in a gorgeous Pacific Northwest coastal enclave where locals have to drive through Canada to reach the US.
Residents in Port Roberts, Washington have been caught in the crossfire of the ongoing trade wars between the two countries ever since President Donald Trump threatened to implement hefty tariffs on a long list of goods imported from Canada.
Locals who live in the small exclave, or part of a state that is geographically separated from the mainland by another territory, are feeling the direct effects of the tariff mayhem – specifically at their three restaurants and singular grocery store.
Residents can either re-enter the US through one border crossing and about a 25 miles car ride to reach downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, or they can make their way through two border crossings and an approximate 25 mile car ride through Canada to then enter the US at Boundary Bay Border.
More than 70 percent of properties are owned by Canadians, and more than 50 percent of an estimated 1,200 residents have dual citizenship, Wayne Lyle, the President of Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce, told the Canadian Press.
The few local businesses and popular tourist attractions, including beaches, hiking trails and a golf course, have been suffering economically as many Canadians have boycotted the area ever since Trump’s tariff threats and talks about making Canada the 51st state of the US.
Despite all their frustration, Americans said they don’t blame Canadians for feeling that way, but they are still suffering tremendously from the fallout.
Residents in Port Roberts, Washington (pictured) have been caught in the crossfire of the ongoing trade wars between the two countries ever since President Donald Trump threatened to implement hefty tariffs on a long list of goods imported from Canada
‘This was really devastating,’ Tamra Hansen (pictured), a longtime resident and business owner in the exclave, said. ‘If we don’t get the support from the Canadians, this town will die’
The unique five-square-mile community in Whatcom County is surrounded by water on three sides and has only one land connection to Canada. (Pictured: The Point Roberts border checkpoint)
‘This was really devastating,’ Tamra Hansen, a longtime resident and business owner in the exclave told the outlet. ‘If we don’t get the support from the Canadians, this town will die.’
Point Roberts Fire Chief Christopher Carleton echoed Hansen’s concerns, especially since many of his firefighters live across the border.
‘We need to take care of one another and have grace for one another and not allow people who don’t even know we exist to disrupt the relationships we currently have,’ Carleton said.
Meanwhile, Mark Nykolaichuk, who lives in the Vancouver, B.C. area, said he hopes he can help keep the community alive.
Nykolaichuk refuses to travel to the mainland US, but has made a special exception for Port Roberts because of its close ties to Canada.
He specifically frequents the sole grocery store on the exclave – the Point Roberts International Marketplace – to buy food for him to cook at his vacation home.
Because of US customs restrictions, raw meat is not permitted at the border, so Nykolaichuk has to purchase it in town.
‘Nobody wants to see this place shut down,’ he said. ‘If this place goes, where are the U.S. citizens going to eat? Where are they going to get their food from?’
More than 70 percent of properties are owned by Canadians, 50 percent of which are dual citizens, Wayne Lyle (pictured), the President of Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce, said
Management at the market recently reported that business is down 20 to 30 percent.
Similarly, a liquor store in the town, Larry’s Liquor Locker, has seen its sales tank by 40 percent in the last month.
The owner, Larry Musselwhite, 75, has been faced with a harsh reality that he blames on Trump.
‘This is because of our elected president, who really doesn’t care about the common man and the struggles that we have to go through,’ Musselwhite said.
‘It greatly affects how I live my life.’
Around 75 percent of Port Roberts residents voted for a presidential candidate other than Trump, according to 2024 election results.
Hansen, who owns two businesses in the area, said the political climate has severely impacted resident’s relationships with neighboring Canadians.
Management at Point Roberts International Market (pictured) – the only grocery store in town – recently reported that business is down 20-30 percent
A cash register at the Point Roberts International Marketplace has two trays for both Canadian and U.S. currencies
Other than imported goods, Port Roberts residents, like Brian Calder (pictured), are also fearful that Canada might impose tariffs on necessary utilities if tensions escalate
‘We’ve always gotten along and it’s just nonsensical because now the U.S. is going to suffer too,’ the dual citizen said.
‘I definitely feel for the Canadian people at this time because they’ve got their backs against the wall, really, and they have to retaliate.’
She runs a breakfast spot, Saltwater Cafe, and another restaurant called The Pier.
Hansen has 15 employees that she pays, but as of February, business has been down 55 percent, compared to last year. There have even been days when her businesses didn’t even make $100.
‘There are some businesses that are going out of business right now as we speak,’ she said.
‘It’s very emotional for me because I care about everybody that lives here.’
In response to Trump’s on again, off again tariff threats, Canada has promised retaliatory tariffs on the US.
Locals have also become increasingly frustrated with Trump starting and stopping the tariffs, leaving many with inconsistencies, especially in their businesses.
Hugh Wilson, a local real estate agent who manages multiple Airbnb locations in the community, said he’s been receiving a lot of cancellations lately.
Larry Musselwhite (pictured), 75, the owner of Larry’s Liquor Locker, has seen its sales tank by 40 percent in the last month
Hansen runs a breakfast spot, Saltwater Cafe, and another restaurant called The Pier (pictured). Hansen has 15 employees that she pays, but as of February, business has been down 55 percent, compared to last year
A bicyclist approaches the Nexus lane at the border crossing checkpoint into Delta, British Columbia in Point Roberts
‘Nobody is sure of the rules at any one day here. The border agents do the best they can to stay up to date and they relay that to us as normal people crossing the border,’ Wilson said.
Other than imported goods, Port Roberts residents are also fearful that Canada might impose tariffs on necessary utilities if tensions escalate.
‘If it gets more brutal, they can cut off the water just like that, or the power,’ Brian Calder, the former president of the Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce, said.
‘And it just depends how much more confrontation is fomented by Trump’s office.’
Calder is also in support of how Canadians are dealing with the massive shakeup and threats, calling Trump’s strategy ‘absolutely stupid and inhumane.’
‘And then on top of that, you threatened the integrity of Canada as a nation,’ Calder said of the president.
‘There’s no question that Canada will retaliate … they’ve got every right to.’
Lyle said the lack of Canadian visitors has not only impacted business across the exclave, but has created a ‘scary’ atmosphere.
‘The current political situation is darn right scary for our businesses there. Ninety per cent of our business is Canadian,’ Lyle explained.
Around 75 percent of Port Roberts residents voted for a presidential candidate other than Trump, according to 2024 election results. (Aerial view of Port Roberts)
He compared the situation to children going through the divorce of their parents, telling the Canadian Press: ‘I talked to someone last week, and they said they could best sum it up by saying Point Roberts is basically the children going through a divorce proceeding, the parents are the two countries, so we’re powerless.’
Calder and other residents are currently trying to find a solution to the issue by reaching out to the British Columbia premier, as well as the governor of Washington.
Jed Holmes, a spokesman for Whatcom County, told AP they are talking with Washington state’s congressional delegation in D.C. to specifically address the growing issues in Point Roberts amidst the deteriorating US-Canada relationship.
‘I understand that folks want us to do more, but it’s really challenging to identify what meaningful things a county government can do to change this dynamic at the international level,’ Holmes said.
Operatives of the Ahiazu Mbaise Divisional Headquarters have arrested one Vitalis Nwoko (58), of Umuagba, Ahiazu Mbaise LGA, for the alleged murder of his wife, Uloma.
The arrest followed a report lodged at the Division by the deceased’s sister, who alleged that the suspect violently ass@ulted his wife during a domestic dispute. Acting promptly on the report, operatives of the Division arrested the suspect.
Confirming the arrest, the command’s spokesperson, SP Henry Okoye, said during preliminary investigation, the suspect stated that a misunderstanding between him and his wife on December 11th, 2025 escalated into a physical altercation, during which the victim collapsed. She was rushed to Cecilia Hospital, Ogbe, where she was confirmed de@d by a medical doctor.
Okoye said the suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Owerri, for thorough investigation and prosecution.
The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, while reacting to the incident, urged residents to promptly report cases of domestic v!olence, assuring the public of the Command’s resolve to deal decisively with perpetrators.
The call for the establishment of state police received a major boost at the weekend with the backing of major socio-cultural organizations in Nigeria- Afenifere, Ohanaeze and Arewa youths.
Ekwutosblog reports that for decades, there has been an intense debate on the necessity of establishing state police in Nigeria and the fear of politicization by state governors.
On February 15, 2024, President Bola Tinubu met with state governors in Abuja, where the possibility of setting up the state police was extensively discussed.
While the discussion brought a sigh of relief to some Nigerians, some stakeholders raised concerns that the country is not fit to have state police yet, expressing fear of abuse by state governors.
While some argued that the centralized Nigeria Police remains overstretched and ill-equipped to effectively police 230 million people across complex terrains, others said the governors may misuse the local police forces especially for political intimidation.
Ekwutosblog reports that the State Police Constitution Alteration Bill currently on the floor of the Senate and the House of Representatives, is among the 44 harmonized bills now ready for consideration and voting by the two chambers.
Reports indicated that the red and green chambers may vote on the bills this week before it is further sent to state Houses of Assembly.
In separate interviews with Ekwutosblog, Afenifere, Ohanaeze and Arewa youths backed the creation of state police, expressing optimism that local police may help in quelling the decade-long security challenges.
DAILY POST reports that the State Police Constitution Alteration Bill currently on the floor of the Senate and the House of Representatives, is among the 44 harmonised bills now ready for consideration and voting by the two chambers.
Reports indicated that the red and green chambers may vote on the bills this week before it is further sent to state Houses of Assembly.
In separate interviews with Ekwutosblog , Afenifere, Ohanaeze and Arewa youths backed the creation of state police, expressing optimism that local police may help in quelling the decade-long security challenges.
He argued that if governors don’t have the “apparatus of security at their command”, they would be unable to effectively discharge their duties as chief security officers of their respective states.
Ajayi advised that clauses should be inserted in the state police law that would restrain the governors from outright abuse or politicization of the local police.
Afenifere also called on the Federal Government to identify financiers of terrorism and prosecute them.
According to Ajayi, the menace of terrorism has reached an unacceptable level such that “no-one can predict where next the monster is going to rear its ugly head.
“The situation could not have been this bad were those perpetrating it not having the backing of people in high places.
“Concentrating only on kidnappers arrested in the bush would not bring an end to the scourge.
“Without the financing, endorsement, sponsorship and protection of people of means and people in high places, bandits would not be able to sustain their dastardly act for this long.”
He gave kudos to the National Assembly for the call on the Executive Arm of the government not only to name financiers of banditry but to also prosecute them.
“The step being taken by the lawmakers to also strengthen the law on terrorism is very welcomed.
“In view of the devastating nature banditry and terrorism have reached in Nigeria today, prescribing capital punishment for the perpetrators without the option of fine is in order.
“Innocent lives of thousands have been lost, some families have been wiped out just as properties running into billions, if not trillions, have been destroyed.
“So, those perpetrating such evil acts deserve no mercy when proven guilty as they themselves show no mercy on their victims,” he stated.
Northern govs may use state police to unseat President Tinubu in 2027 – Ohanaeze
On his part, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, factional Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide said though the establishment of state police is the only way to go due to the surge in killings and other activities of the bloodthirsty assailants, some Northern governors may use the local police against President Tinubu in 2027.
Isiguzoro noted that without substantive police reforms instituted by the National Assembly, which would establish frameworks to preclude the abuse of power by the 36 state governors, the creation of state police “might become a vehicle for electoral manipulation.”
According to him, “The ongoing attempts by Nigerian governors to circumvent the Supreme Court verdict regarding the autonomy of the 774 local government areas, in collusion with various State Houses of Assembly, epitomizes a disconcerting pattern of governance characterized by corruption and a flagrant disregard for constitutional rights.
“It is imperative to recognize that should appropriate police reforms not be enacted and implemented forthwith, there exists a tangible risk that certain state governors will exploit state police mechanisms to perpetrate electoral malfeasance, potentially allowing them to unseat President Tinubu in 2027—particularly given the Northern Governors’ proclivity towards such stratagems.”
Isiguzoro lamented that insecurity in Nigeria has “rapidly deteriorated, inflicting irrevocable damage to Nigeria’s international reputation”.
He reiterated the urgent necessity for comprehensive police reforms, accompanied by unwavering vigilance from the National Assembly, to ensure that the establishment of state police serves the interests of law and order, rather than becoming an instrument of political subversion.
Arewa youths back state police, call for oversight framework to stop abuse by govs
In an exclusive interview with DAILY POST, President of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, AYCF, Alhaji Shettima Yerima said the insurgency in the northeast, banditry in the northwest, and communal clashes in the middle-belt regions required tailored responses that a centralized police force often “struggles to provide”.
According to Shettima, establishing state police would allow for localized security measures, which according to him, would enable law enforcement to respond more effectively to the unique security needs of each region.
“State police officers, being residents of the communities they serve, would possess intimate knowledge of local dynamics, enabling them to address issues with greater sensitivity and effectiveness.
“Moreover, a localized approach to policing could significantly enhance trust and cooperation between law enforcement and citizens.
“When community members see familiar faces in their police force, individuals who understand their concerns and cultural nuances—they are more likely to engage positively with law enforcement.
“This trust is crucial in fostering a collaborative environment where citizens feel empowered to report crimes and cooperate with police investigations, ultimately leading to a more secure society”.
He further stated that the establishment of state police in Nigeria aligns with global trends in decentralizing law enforcement, citing some countries like the United States, Canada, and Germany, where regional policing structures were established to cater for local security needs.
Shettima said: “These models demonstrate that localized policing can lead to more effective crime prevention and community engagement. Nigeria, with its diverse regions and unique security challenges, stands to benefit significantly from a policing system that is tailored to its specific contexts.
“By adopting a decentralized approach, Nigeria can create a policing framework that not only addresses the immediate security concerns but also promotes regional autonomy and empowerment.
“This shift would reflect a commitment to democratic governance, where local governments play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and security of their constituents.
“Despite the potential benefits, concerns regarding the potential abuse of power by state governors loom large, particularly given the historical context of political manipulation of state resources to suppress dissent.
“Critics argue that the politicization of law enforcement under state governors’ control could lead to the misuse of state police for personal or political gain, undermining the very essence of justice and accountability.”
However, on the fear of politicization of the local police by state governors, Shettima advised that the “establishment of state police is accompanied by a robust accountability and oversight framework.
“Regulations must govern recruitment, training, and operational protocols to ensure that state police operate with integrity and professionalism.
“An independent oversight body should be established to monitor the activities of state police, providing a check against potential abuses of power and ensuring that law enforcement remains accountable to the communities it serves.
“The federal government plays a crucial role in ensuring that state police operate within a defined legal framework. Clear guidelines outlining the powers and limitations of state police are essential to prevent overreach and ensure adherence to democratic principles.
“Protocols regarding the use of force, community engagement, and the protection of citizens’ rights must be explicitly articulated to safeguard against potential abuses”.
President and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has urged the Federal Government to investigate and prosecute the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed, over allegations of economic sabotage and actions he claims are undermining domestic refining in Nigeria.
Dangote made the call while addressing journalists at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, where he accused the leadership of the NMDPRA of working in concert with international oil traders and fuel importers to frustrate local refining efforts.
He alleged that the continuous approval of import licenses for petroleum products was deliberately weakening Nigeria’s refining capacity.
The industrialist also claimed that the NMDPRA chief was living beyond his legitimate income, further raising concerns about the integrity of regulatory oversight in the downstream petroleum sector.
Despite his criticisms, Dangote reassured Nigerians that petrol prices would continue to decline, announcing that the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, would not exceed N740 per liter from Tuesday, beginning in Lagos.
He explained that the reduction follows the refinery’s decision to cut its gantry price to N699 per litre, with MRS filling stations expected to be the first to reflect the new pricing.
Dangote expressed deep concern over the structure of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum industry, warning that the country’s continued dependence on imported fuel was stifling local production and discouraging investment in domestic refining.
He revealed that import licenses amounting to about 7.5 billion liters of PMS had reportedly been approved for the first quarter of 2026, despite the existence of substantial local refining capacity.
According to him, the policy environment has placed modular refineries under severe pressure, pushing many to the verge of collapse.
“I am not asking for his removal, but for a transparent investigation. He should be made to explain his actions and prove that his office has not been compromised.
“What we are witnessing amounts to economic sabotage,” Dangote said, adding that agencies such as the Code of Conduct Bureau could be tasked with conducting the probe.
He further described the downstream sector as being dominated by powerful interests that profit from fuel imports at the expense of national development.
Dangote lamented that many African countries, including Nigeria, continue to rely on imported refined products despite longstanding calls for value addition and local refining.
According to him, the volume of fuel imports being permitted into the country is unethical and undermines Nigeria’s economic interests.
Dangote stressed the importance of clearly separating regulatory responsibilities from commercial activities, warning that allowing traders to influence regulatory decisions would erode confidence in the sector.
“The downstream industry must not be sacrificed to personal interests. A trader should never act as a regulator. Dozens of licences have been issued, yet no new refineries are emerging because the operating environment is hostile,” he said.
He maintained that Nigerians stand to benefit significantly from local refining, even as fuel importers bear losses.
Dangote reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that citizens enjoy the full benefits of domestic refining, noting that the company is working tirelessly to ensure that recent gantry price reductions translate to lower pump prices nationwide.
From Tuesday, he said, MRS filling stations in Lagos would commence the sale of PMS at prices not exceeding N740 per litre.
He also disclosed that the refinery has reduced its minimum purchase requirement from two million litres to 500,000 litres, enabling more marketers, including members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, to access products directly.
“So, any marketer coming to the refinery today can lift PMS at N699 per litre,” Dangote added.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LOVE- GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA CELEBRATES HIS WIFE ON HER BIRTHDAY WITH HEARTFELT MESSAGE .
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