Autonomy: Oyo APC Warns LG Bosses About Plan By Gov Makinde To Compromise Law

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August 5, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has accused Governor Seyi Makinde of disrespecting the Supreme Court over its judgement on local government autonomy.

The party warned Chairmen and career officers in the 33 local government areas in the state to distance themselves from the spirited efforts by Governor Seyi Makinde to subvert the judgment of the Supreme Court.

Elected local government chairmen in Oyo state had resolved over the weekend to continue to receive allocations to their councils directly from Governor, Seyi Makinde contrary to Supreme Court judgement which granted autonomy to the third tier of government.

They also agreed to pull out of the Association of Local Government Chairmen, (ALGON) and float another body.

APC in a statement on Monday by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, said toeing the line of the governor could land them in jail sooner than later.

The Supreme Court had early last month ruled that it is unconstitutional for governors to withhold funds earmarked for local government councils thus granting full autonomy to the 774 council areas in the country.

Sadare maintained that Makinde has emerged the lone voice among the 36 state governors condemning the Apex Court’s verdict as he was quoted to have described it as a distraction.

He noted that the governor also inaugurated a special committee to review the judgement and mandated members of the committee to come up with recommendations which would enable him maintain the status quo as it concerns the joint account arrangement between states and local government councils.

The APC scribe also accused the governor of covetousness and lack of respect for constitutional democracy and the rule of law as well as having inordinate ambition to make Oyo state a separate republic from Nigeria with a view to making himself a demi-god that would be worshipped by all and sundry.

The statement read, “The whole world did not realize the magnitude of damage done to the third tier of government in Oyo State in the last 62 months until Governor Makinde came out openly to castigate both the federal government and the Judiciary on the issue of financial autonomy.

“The governor has been fighting tooth and nail to promote unpopular call for a reversal of the verdict which has been described, by most people, as a victory for the masses.

“Unfortunately for Governor Makinde, his recent actions have confirmed the allegations bothering on the embezzlement of council funds being leveled against him by our party (APC) and others.

“It is now crystal clear that the PDP governor had mapped out an eight-year plan aimed at looting LGA funds but got his dream truncated by the celebrated verdict of the Supreme Court.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the decision of the Apex Court remains sacrosanct even if he (Makinde) refused to agree to it. Meanwhile, Oyo State is a fraction of the nation called Nigeria and it is wrong for a governor to claim ‘sovereignty’ even as he depends on the federal government handouts and allocations to pilot the affairs of his state.

“On the final note, the reported withdrawal of the imposed 33 Council Chairmen from ALGON is just a smokescreen as we are aware of a script already handed to them by their principal.

“There is absolutely nothing Governor Makinde can do to make him the recipient of the allocations due to 33 LGAs again and any Chairman or career officer who compromise the provision of the law on account of blind loyalty or unfounded fear would pay for it as efforts are also in top gear to make the governor and other accomplices account for the trillions of naira already mismanaged at the expense of the LGAs.”

As Huge Erosion Threatens Aba, Gov. Otti Orders Evacuation

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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August 5, 2024

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

With a huge gully erosion in the Ovom Ogbo Hill area of Aba, the commercial enclave of Abia, threatening the lives of thousands of residents and several high profile properties, the State Government has ordered the evacuation of the area.

The State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, on an on-the-spot assessment tour of the site Sunday evening, August 4, 2024, also directed an immediate action to remedy the dangerous situation.

The Source reports that the deep and long erosion site gully site has cut the road into two, created a long valley with several buildings and other landed properties lost.

Governor Otti has directed the General Manager of the Greater Aba Development Authority, GADA, to interface with his office, with a view to mobilizing experienced engineers and other relevant professionals to find a lasting solution to the problem.

Speaking with the Media after the assessment tour, the Governor expressed concern that unless urgent steps are taken to arrest the development, more damage will be wrecked.

“It is very unfortunate that erosion has dealt a deadly blow to this area and the way it is going, if not controlled immediately, it will not only affect all the buildings around but, also the opposite side of the road where we are building roads.

“So, we need to come very quickly, and I have given the directives to the General Manager of Greater Aba Development Authority ,for him to see me later this evening (Sunday) so that we will start solving the problem in the next few weeks.

“We are starting immediately after engaging engineers and other professionals. We are not going to use direct labour

“We need professionals who understand what to do. And I strongly believe that it is something that we should deal with before the end of this year.

“I have asked the GM of GADA to evacuate those living around the area. If you look around these buildings, there is nobody in there.

“Those who are very close, I had already evacuated them, and it is my hope that nobody goes back there again, because it is very dangerous.” Governor Otti stated.

“On the assessment tour with the Governor were the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, the lawmaker representing Aba Central State Constituency Hon. Ucheonye Stephen, the GADA GM, Arch. Uche Ukeje, the Acting Chairman of the Labour Party LP Abia State and others.

The Source reports that erosion has been one of the most pronounced ecological problems facing most parts of Abia state .

Worst hit, however, are communities in the Abia North Senatorial District, particularly, in Isukwuato Local Council.

Successive administrations had paid lip service to the menace leading to the escalation of the problem over the years.

Uzodimma Appoints Okoye Acting Chairman Imo State Internal Revenue Service

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The Source

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August 5, 2024

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Governor Hope Uzodimma has approved the appointment of Mr Remigius Justice Okoye as the Acting Chairman of Imo State Internal Revenue Service (IIRS).

The appointment is with immediate effect.

Okoye, a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Accountants (FCA) comes into the office with a rich résumé in accounting and related discipline that spans many years.

Governor Uzodimma urged him to deploy all available frameworks within the disposal of his agency to enhance the revenue generation capabilities of the IIRS, thereby improving the financial base of the State Government to enable her provide the much needed dividends of democracy to the citizens.

The Governor further congratulated Okoye on his appointment.

Tinubu’s Achievements Under-reported, Unemployed Graduates To Get Stipends-Minister

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James Orji

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August 5, 2024

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Prof Tahir Mamman - Minister of Education

The Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman has dislcosed plan by the federal government to commence payment of a monthly stipends to unemployed graduates in the country.

The minister spoke on Monday while addressing a delegation of youths who visited him in his office.

His comment comes on the heels of the ongoing nationwide protest, predominantly by youths across the country over the economic hardship in the country.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said in a nationwide broadcast on Sunday that the demands of the protesters are already being adrressed.

According to Mamman, graduates in the country will now be paid some money until they are able to secured jobs, as part of the Tinubu administration plan for them to fight poverty, adding that most laudable policies of the adminsitration have been under-reported by the media.

“The government has committed a certain allowance for every unemployed graduate in Nigeria. This is very important for graduates and every Nigerian to know,” he said.

President Tinubu on Sunday said he has approved an additional N40 billion to be disbursed under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund to assist students in the tertiary institutions.

Atiku Tears President Tinubu’s Speech Says It Failed To Convince Nigerians

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Ayodele Oni

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August 5, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

The Presidential Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed the broadcast by President Bola Tinubu to Nigerians on the Nationwide Hunger Protest as no use. Atiku said the address to the Nation overlooked the severe economic challenges of Nigerians.

In a statement on Sunday, Atiku pointed out that average Nigerian families have been confronted with hardship since the beginning of Tinubu’s administration.

He stated: “This address lacks credibility and fails to offer any immediate, tangible solutions to the Nigerian people.

“Given the extensive publicity surrounding the protests and the threats issued by government officials against demonstrators, one would have expected President Tinubu to present groundbreaking reforms, particularly those aimed at reducing the exorbitant costs of governance.

“But alas, no such announcements were made. The President ignored the protesters’ demands, such as suspending the purchase of aircraft for the President, downsizing his bloated cabinet, or even eliminating the costly and burdensome office of the First Lady, who has been indulging in extravagant trips at the nation’s expense.

“In his lacklustre recorded speech, President Tinubu offered a superficial account of his so-called reforms, revealing his own tenuous grasp of policy as he failed to convince his audience.

“While the President has spoken, it is unfortunate that his words lack substance and respect for the protesters’ sentiments, leaving Nigerians with little faith in his reform agenda – if one exists at all.

“We urge the President and his team to own up to their failures over the past 14 months and abandon the absurd theory that the protests are orchestrated by the opposition.

“This administration has failed on all fronts, even in the simple task of keeping a presidential speech confidential.

“Typically, presidential addresses are shared under embargo with media houses. However, the premature leak of this speech, allowing Nigerians to read along with the President in real-time, starkly illustrates the media, nay Nigerians dwindling confidence in this administration.”

NANS South West Kicks Against Expulsion Of Students Over Protest, Demands Removal Of Rector

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Ayodele Oni

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August 5, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest zone has called on the federal government to remove the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, in Osun State, Dr. Sani Man Yahaya, over alleged unlawful expulsion of students.

NANS Southwest also issued five days ultimatum within which the demand should be met.

The Students’ body request was contained in a statement on Monday signed by its leadership.

Signatories are Alao John,

Coordinator; Sanni Olamide;

Secretary; and Bamigboye Oluwadamilola,

It reads “The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest is issuing a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government regarding the unlawful expulsion of students from Federal Polytechnic, Ede.

“We demand the immediate removal of the current Rector, Dr. Sani Man Yahaya, who has orchestrated these unjust actions against our members.

“This five-day ultimatum, starting from today 5th August 20th – 9th August, 2024 Monday-Friday, aims to correct this gross injustice, failing which we will mobilize to shut down the institution on Monday August 12, 2024.

“The recent expulsions, following the peaceful protest of May 9, 2024, represent a flagrant violation of the fundamental rights of the students involved.

“These students were exercising their right to protest against legitimate concerns, and their expulsion without due process or fair hearing is a severe breach of justice and equity.

“It is unacceptable that students are being punished for their involvement in peaceful demonstrations, a cornerstone of democratic expression and civic engagement.

“Educational institutions are meant to foster critical thinking and active citizenship, not to suppress voices of dissent through draconian measures.

“The current administration at Federal Polytechnic, Ede, under the leadership of Dr. Sani Man Yahaya, has clearly failed in this regard, choosing instead to undermine the academic and personal development of its students.

“We call on the Federal Government to act swiftly and decisively. The removal of Dr. Sani Man Yahaya and the immediate reinstatement of the expelled students are non-negotiable.

“Failure to meet these demands within the stipulated five days will compel NANS Southwest to take decisive action, including the shutdown of Federal Polytechnic, Ede, starting August 12, 2024.

“We urge all stakeholders, including parents, alumni, and civil society organizations, to support this just cause.

“The integrity of our educational system and the future of our students are at stake. NANS Southwest remains committed to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian students and will not relent until justice is served.

Northern Group Applauds Gov Nasir For Making Kebbi A Model, Peaceful State

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Ayodele Oni

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August 5, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

Concerned Northern Forum has applauded Kebbi state Governor, Nasir Idris for transforming the state through inclusive governance.

The forum recommended the governor to President Bola Tinubu for special recognition, not only for foiling the recent protest in his state, but also for transforming the state.

Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to Kebbi State Governor disclosed this in a statement made available to Newsmen in Birnin Kebbi on Monday.

Idris quoted Abdulsalam-Mohammed-Kazeem, Spokesman of the forum as saying this while addressing a press conference in Kaduna on Monday.

The spokesman said: “Contrary to what is happening in other states across the federation, Kebbi State remains a model.

“Kudos to the dedication and commitment of the Executive Governor, Comrade Dr Idris Nasir, who prevailed on the youths and people of his state to have shelved the senseless nationwide protest.

“It means that he has channeled the revenue, palliatives and other incentives meant for his people towards alleviating the hardship occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy and other timely economic reforms of the current administration.

“Dr Nasir Idris therefore deserves commendation for upholding the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda and aligning his state to take advantage of all the interventions of Mr President.”

He described the governor as one who prioritizes his people above his personal gains, adding that it was evident by the transformation recorded in infrastructural landscape of the state in just one year in office.

According to him, Gov. Idris has also revolutionized education, healthcare, agriculture, security and other key sectors of the economy.

“With his kind intervention, the people of Kebbi State owe it a duty to obey him and refrain from unleashing mayhem on their state as happened elsewhere.

“If all state governors and other elected representatives will decide to act responsibly and avoid the temptation for wealth accumulation, Nigerians would have chosen to side with the truth as against the faceless, deceptive protest organisers.”

The spokesman advised the federal government to consider punitive measures against states where sensitive government property and infrastructure were destroyed by relocating the affected facilities to neighbouring states with functional governors to serve as reward for hard work and dedicated stewardship.

He cited an example of the Digital Innovation Park in Kano, built to support Mr President’s 3 Million Technical Talent accelerator (3MTT) which was set ablaze and looted in Kano, describing the situation as unfortunate and uncalled for.

In view of this, he said, such facility should be relocated to Kebbi State, saying: “It will be a great injustice for the federal government to consider rebuilding such a gigantic and strategic facility in a state where the governor is working at cross purposes with the federal government and does not have the grip on his citizens.

“Kebbi State is also part of the North-West and it won’t be fair if this great Comrade Governor is not rewarded for his sterling leadership and support for the policies and programmes of the federal government.

“With the youthful population, economic viability and eagerness for job creation by the Comrade Governor and his people, relocating this project to Kebbi will boost the economy of the state and increase its internally generated revenue by over ₦300 billion.

“Indeed, Kebbi State needs interventions like this more than Kano State in addition to the governor’s high impact governance.”

Bobrisky Completes Jail Term, Released From Prison

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Ayodele Oni

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August 5, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

Nigerian crossdresser and social media influencer, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, has regained freedom, after completing his prison jail term.

Bobrisky breathed air of freedom Monday after he served a six-month jail term for naira mutilation.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) prosecuted Bobrisky, who was sentenced by the Federal High Court in Lagos State to six months in prison for abuse of the Naira without an option of fine.

On Monday morning, a video surfaced showing Bobrisky being welcomed by friends who had come to accompany him home.

As Bobrisky steps back into the limelight, the attention now shifts to his next moves and the potential impact of his experience on his advocacy and public persona.

Obaseki To Tinubu: “You Have Subjected Nigerians To Difficult Living Conditions In 1 Year”

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James Orji

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August 5, 2024

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo state has blamed the federal government for the economic hardship in the country.

The Edo helmsman made the remark on Sunday, saying his government is seriously working to ameliorate the sufferings.

The governor spoke amidst the ongoing hunger protest in the country, as Nigerians demand action on the part of the federal government to end the hardship, blamed on the harsh policies introduced by President Tinubu within one year in office.

President Tinubu had, in a nationwide broadcast on Sunday, appealed to Nigerians to calm down as his administration is already addressing the problems.

Speaking yesterday, Obaseki said the federal government should take the responsibility for impeverishing Nigerians within one year that Tinubu came to power.

He said the economic policies introduced by the president has not helped the country, rather they have made more Nigerians poor since Tinubu came to office on may 29, 2023.

According to Obaseki, his government has taken the bull by the horns by chunning out programes, such as, the increase in the minimum wage, free transportation and feeding to assist the people of the state in the face of the current hardship in the country.

President Tinubu, according to his supporters, put the 36 state governors on the spot after claiming in his nationwide address that they have received N570 billion intervention funds from his government.

Where’s the money, Nigerians who are calling on the governors to account for the fund, said.

Tinubu’s Broadcast Met Protesters’ Demands, Says Okupe

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James Orji

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August 5, 2024

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A former presidential spokesperson, Doyin Okupe, says President Bola Tinubu did not disappointed Nigerians in his nationwide broadcast on Sunday to address the ongoing hunger protests in the country.

Okupe made this remark on his X handle on Sunday, saying Tinubu outlined the efforts being made by his administration to address the problems raised by the protesters.

The magazine reports that angry Nigerians have taken to major cities in the country to draw the administration’s attention to the economic hardship in the country.

Tinubu’s broadcast, according to the critics of the administration, seriously failed to calm frayed nerves, and have even stoked more anger among not a few Nigerian which described the president to be very insensitive.

For instance, literary icon, Prof. Wole Soyinka on Sunday, criticised President Tinubu for not addressing the protesters core demands, and security agencies highhandedness against the protest.

Reacting, Okupe said the president stated in his address the economic challenges inherited by the administration, and efforts being made to resolve them.

He said, “President Bola Tinubu’s speech has not disappointed Nigerians in that for the first time, the president clearly stated the daunting economic situation his administration met on ground at inception.

“He also amplified the strenuous efforts made by his government to reduce the prevailing crippling and stagnating debt servicing ratio from 97 per cent of earned revenue to 68 per cent.

“In truth, this has been the major cause of our present economic woes and sufferings. It is now self-evident that if the fuel subsidy was not removed, it would have been impossible for the government to function.

“And the government will not be able to meet its obligations, without continuing the profligacy of massive and sustained borrowing to fund the subsequent national budgets,” Mr Okupe said.

After dumping the Labour Party recently Okupe has been trenchantly criticised for becoming one of the ‘unofficial’ spokesperson of the Tinubu administration.