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Bobrisky Sentenced To Jail, Without Option Of Fine

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Bobrisky in Court

By Akinwale Kasali

Embattled and controversial Cross Dresser, Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky has been sentenced to Jail by Justice A.O Awogboro of the Federal High Court.

Bobrisky was sentenced to six months imprisonment without any option of fine for abusing the Naira.

It would be recalled that Bobrisky had been arraigned before the Court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for abusing the Naira.

He was remanded in EFCC Custody before his sentencing by Justice Awogboro.

…Details later

Foreigners Responsible For Insurgency In Nigeria –  National Christian Elders

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Dr Samuel Gani

By Ayodele Oni

National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) has observed that the massive killings and abductions ongoing in the country have foreign connections.

Addressing the media in Abuja, chairman of NCEF, Dr Samuel Gani, a former Deputy Governor of Taraba State, and Secretary, Pastor Bosun Emmanuel, called on the indigenous ethnic nationalities to come together to renegotiate Nigeria.

The Forum noted that “Nigerians have no problem with each other. It is external forces that are seeking to tear the country apart for hostile takeover of the land and its resources. The demand for devolution of power should be intensified by the ethnic nationalities.

“Recently, a community leader in the Niger Delta, Mr. Asari Dokubo, posted in a video clip that thousands of Fulanis have entered the country and they have taken over villages in Bayelsa and Rivers state.

He raised alarm that a displacement invasion is ongoing.

“Similar reports have been made in Taraba, Benue, Adamawa, and in other parts of the country.

“The recent visit of Hamas terrorists to Nigeria, bearing in mind that Hamas is not the government of Palestine, neither does it represent the Palestinian people in any legislative capacity, also raises concern about government’s commitment to fighting terrorism.

“President Tinubu should set forth his agenda for Nigeria instead of following in the infamous footsteps of his predecessor whose tenure brought only grief and penury to Nigerians.

“NCEF wishes to reiterate its earlier recommendation that President Tinubu should appoint a Special Investigator to conduct a Commission of Inquiry into the causes, as well as expose the actors, in the various acts of terrorism and religious insurgency that overwhelmed Nigeria since 2009.

“NCEF is calling on the indigenous Muslims in Nigeria to calmly examine these issues and take positions that will be in the long-term best interest of their ethnic groups.

“This is the time for the indigenous ethnic nationalities to carefully define their friends and foes. The amount of blood that has been shed in Nigeria, involving indigenous Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists, prove that the indigenous ethnic nationalities have the same enemy.

“That enemy is a foreign invader. The killings going on in Nigeria were not motivated by the indigenous ethnic nationalities.

“Unfortunately, some of the local actors were manipulated into thinking they were pursuing a religious agenda, but the puppet masters have no religious goal in view. It is all about racial displacement.”

The Forum further recommend that “The Report of the 2014 National Conference, which included a draft new Constitution for Nigeria, should be implemented without any further delay.

“The perennial amendment of the Constitution by the National Assembly should cease, and the legislators should start work on a new Constitution for Nigeria.

“After five alterations to the Constitution, without any significant positive impact on the country, the National Assembly should commence work immediately on adopting the report of the 2014 National Conference with its draft Constitution.”

PDP Flays Appointment Of Many Aides By Ekiti Gov Oyebanji

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Biodun Oyebanji - Ekiti State Governor

By Ayodele Oni

The Ekiti State Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party,  (PDP), has accused Governor Biodun Oyebanji of wasting the meagre resources of the state on political appointments.

PDP described recent political appointments as an attempt to syphon the State treasury for governor ‘s second term ambition.

The opposition party is kicking against the recent appointments  of over 110 Special Assistants (SAs), Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Technical Advisors (TAs) announced by the state government.

The appointments have created bad blood among members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state that felt shortchanged as the new appointees include some loyalists of former Governor Ayodele Fayose, a member of the PDP.

A statement on Friday by the PDP spokesman in the state, Raphael Adeyanju stated that “Governor Oyebanji had earlier on November 2023, appointed no fewer than 162 aides including 79 senior special assistants (SSAs), 73 special assistants (SAs), and 10 technical advisors (TAs).

“Ekiti State Governor has turned the State to a poverty alleviation center for his hungry party members.

“How can a reasonable government engage in this form of stupid exercise, when the ordinary citizen  is grasping for survival as a result of inhuman policies of the ruling All Progressive Congress,(APC)  both at the National and State levels.

“Before the recent outrageous appointments,  the governor, already has an over bloated cabinet with over 21 commissioners and 14 Special Advisers in a bid to enrich his party faithfuls at the expense of the generality of Ekiti people.

“How can a governor that has not spent two years in office be planning for a second term when he has not met the aspirations of the electorates?

“The failure of the APC led government is evident in the current biting economic hardship and  unprecedented surging wave of insecurity in Ekiti.

“The best way to prepare for a re- election is to win the trust of the electorates by providing quality leadership with life-enhancing projects  and people-oriented programmes that will endeared the governor to his subjects.

“Instead of doing the right thing,  the Governor is busy running after endorsement of sycophants and enemies of Ekiti masses.”

Over 50 Bandits Killed In Sustained Military Onslaught In Zamfara, As OPHD Targets Bandits Strongholds

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Soliders on Patrol

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

No fewer than 50 banditry elements operating in Zamfara and its environs have been reportedly killed in a combined military onslaught on major bandits’ camps between Wednesday April 10 and early hours of Thursdays April 11 by the operatives of the Operation Handarin Daji, OPHD

The Source gathered that the well-coordinated attacks on identified bandit enclaves in Munhaje, Bayan Ruwa and Bayan Dustin GidanKano areas of Zamfara, which began last weekend, continued unabated during the Sallah festivities.

Sustained airstrikes by the Nigerian Airforce, NAF,  Components of the  OPHD are believed to have severely disrupted the camps of the bandits who are now said to be desperately looking for ways of escaping .

But their bid to escape the airstrikes are believed to have, so far, been nipped in the bud with many of them being neutralized by the operatives of the land components of the OPHD, who are said to be laying in ambush along all escape routes .

Informed sources revealed on Thursday that most of the causalities were recorded due to the  ambushing of the fleeing bandits, with many holed up in their encircled strongholds

The intensity, devastating effects and the sustained nature of the joint military operations are said to have apart from throwing the bandits camps  into disarray, also struck immense fear and apprehension among both the banditry leaders and their followers who are now more preoccupied with how to relocate to safe havens.

The fate of the now embattled banditry elements ,are also believed to be compounded by spates of infighting and reprisal attacks among various various banditry groups  and their leaders .

The Magazine gathered that the banditry confraternity, apart from the already known deaths  of leaders such as Sani Dangote ,Lamo Saude, kachalla Chaki have suffered more set backs since last weekend ,with some trusted footsoldiers losing their lives to the NAF airstrikes.

Although, for now, no official comments are being volunteered by the Zamfara State authorities on the ongoing military onslaught, a  source close to the Government revealed that the unfolding developments may not be divorced from the recent visit and representation made to president Bola Tinubu by the Zamfara state Governor Alhaji Dauda Lawal on the security challenges in the state .

The Source reports that Governor Lawal had, about three weeks ago on a visit to the Presidential Villa, appealed for the drafting of more security personnel and equipment in the war against banditry in the state.

The Governor had also insisted that combating kidnappings and banditry in Zamfara holds the key to the successful arrest of the general air of insecurities pervading most parts of the Northern region.

Governor lawal had  warned that attempting to tackle security challenges in the region will be a mirage ,unless the situation in Zamfara is resolved .

The resoluteness shown by security agencies to halt the activities of the  criminal elements this time  ,appear also to be resonating with the populace  long  disenchanted by the needles blood letting,and audacious criminal activities being perpetrated by the bandits amidst the lackadaisical attitude of the authorities at all levels .

Not a few of them are optimistic that the ongoing military action on the bandits will usher in the long awaited respite.

Junior Pope’s Death: AGN President, Emeka Rollers Misfired

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Onwuasoanya FCC Jones

By Onwuasoanya FCC Jones

Nollywood is in mourning. This is not about the official pronouncement by the Actors Guild President, AGN. Nollywood practitioners who span across more than ten Nigerian film industry Guilds are heartbroken. Prayers are being said across different homes in Nigeria because Junior Pope was a delight of the people. The actor’s story of being an only child of his mother and a father of three young kids adds to the sympathy from across the world for the fine actor.

Typical of Nigerians, reactions, many judgmental, have dominated the social media over the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. While some insensitive people have gone ahead to blame the dead for being careless, there seems to be a swell of opinion targeted at the Producer behind the Production, a certain, Adamma Luke, for not providing his cast and crew with the necessary safety gadgets before letting them sail on a boat back to land. There have been others still who are pouring their venom on Nollywood as an industry, blaming us for not prioritising the safety of workers in the industry.

Apparently, as his way of going along what he considers majority sentiment on the issue, the Actors Guild of Nigeria President, Emeka Rollas, has unleashed a rash of orders and sanctions in the industry. Apparent in the press statement announcing this slew of decisions, the AGN President seem to have reached a verdict, that the producer of the film bears responsibility for the deaths recorded on that boat. This is no different from a jungle justice.

Nollywood fans and normal citizens who tried to pass what is obviously an unfair judgement on the young producer may be forgiven. But it is shocking that a President of an Industry Guild like AGN could display such level of insensitivity and reckless authoritarianism in the face of a pathetic tragedy which all of us are presented with. Emeka Rollas couldn’t have been more traumatized than the Producer of that project, and the esprit de corps demanded, that while protecting the interest of a member of his primary Guild, he should have also appreciated the circumstances of the producer.

We cannot say it enough that everyone of us is devastated with not just the death of Junior Pope, but for every single industry practitioner and other citizens who might have been affected by this accident. However, it must be stated that the only reason the Producer of this film might be blamed for the accident is that it has become a crime for people to work hard and sincerely for their own economic empowerment.

It is not the duty of a passenger to provide safety gadgets for themselves when they board a boat. There is no way, too, that the Producer on this ill-fated production would have known that there would be an accident or to select the better sailor who would be more safety conscious. If it becomes necessary to let anyone bear responsibility for this accident, then, the Company operating the boats and Agencies of Government responsible for the safety and comfort of users of such short water transportation should bear full responsibility.

One of the best ways the President of the Actors Guild would have shown his anger is to call for a protest to the office of the Inland Waterways Authorities and other Agencies and to use his authority as a Union Leader to fight for justice for the Thespian and to a large extent, avert future occurrences. Punishing the Producer might be the simplest actions to take, but it is definitely not the fairest nor the most strategic.

If we are quick to condemn, and even convict Adamma, we might be unconsciously shielding the real culprits from sanctions. The questions I expect the leadership of major industry Guilds and those who earnestly seek justice for the dead to be asking are:

*If the accident has been confirmed to have been caused by lapses in safety considerations, who was supposed to determine the water worthiness of the boat?

*Who licenses the sailors?

*Is the operator of the ill-fated boat licenced? If he is not licenced, why was he allowed to take the paddle?

The arbitrary ban on shooting on waterways or getting expunged scenes that have to do with boat rides or something like it is also a retrogressive and ill-informed order. Filmmakers cannot discard films they probably must have invested millions of Naira into its development because the AGN President said so. At a time when our contemporaries from across the world are already shooting movies in Mars and other planets, someone is trying to tell Nigerian Filmmakers to stop making films on sea because of safety issues, instead of using the opportunity to call on the Government to improve the safety of our waterways. That’s not interesting to hear.

The ban on further production on the film and “banishment” of Adamma Luke is also too extreme and insensitive.

Two years ago or thereabouts, Alec Baldwin mistakenly fired a live bullet which killed the cinematographer on the set of “Rust”. The suspension of production was not an order by the Cinematography Guild of America or any of the other affected Guilds. The Production Companies involved in the production decided to suspend production while the Police carried out its investigations on Alec Baldwin. Following the conclusion of court action on Baldwin, the production immediately resumed and has since been concluded.

As a practitioner and stakeholder in the industry, I would not fail to recognise the passion and proactive disposition of the Actors Guild President, but I advise that some restraint is exercised in handling matters such as this one so that we do not, unknowingly, kill another Comrade while trying to show solidarity for some fallen Comrades. What Adamma needs now more than anything else is industry support and solidarity because, in this professional circle, she is actually the Chief Mourner.

May the souls of all our fallen comrades rest in peace.

Jones is a Nollywood Movie Director and Producer. He is a member of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP)

Nigeria Holds Summit On Justice Sector Reform

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By Ayodele Oni

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice,(AGF) Lateef Fagbemi, has disclosed plans by the present administration to embark on justice sector reform.

Under the reform, Nigerians will have access to justice and fair play unhindered as most laws including electoral laws are to be updated.

At a media briefing in Abuja on Thursday, the AGF revealed that the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) are putting together a new National Summit on Justice sector where all factors hindering the effectiveness of Nigerian laws would be tackled.

The President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, according to the AGF would on April 24, 2024 declare the National Summit open to address critical challenges in the nation’s justice sector in Abuja.

According to Fagbemi, the anticipated National Summit on Justice holding from April 24 to 25, 2024 will be hosted by the

Federal Ministry of Justice, alongside the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the National Judicial Council (NJC).

The National Summit, with the theme, “Repositioning the Justice System: Constitutional, Statutory, and Operational Reforms for Access and Efficiency”, the Minister said, will hold at the Auditorium of National Judicial Institute (NJI) in Abuja.

The  event, Fagbemi said, will address the significant challenges plaguing Nigeria’s justice sector and pave the way for much-needed reforms that will make justice more accessible to all Nigerians.

He said, the Summit will bring together experts, legal professionals, and key stakeholders from across the country to engage in constructive discussions and develop practical solutions that prioritize the justice needs of the average Nigerian.

“The National Summit on Justice presents a unique opportunity to collectively tackle the pressing issues hindering the efficient, fair, and people-centered delivery of justice in our nation.

“The Joint Planning Committee established by the Federal Ministry of Justice and the NBA, headed by the Chairman of the NBA Judiciary Committee, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade, (SAN) has assembled a remarkable group of speakers and panelists to share their invaluable knowledge, expertise and proffer constructive solutions for making the justice system more efficient and accessible to all Nigerians.”

He added that, the summit will feature a keynote address by Dr. Willy Mutunga, EGH, a renowned legal scholar, jurist and former Chief Justice of Kenya, celebrated for his commitment to democratic principles and human rights, and for the transformative judicial reform that took place in Kenya under his watch.

One of the Summit’s goals, the Minister said, is to review, validate, and adopt the revised National Policy on Justice 2024 – 2028 to drive prison reforms, access to justice for the average Nigerian, as well as the review of electoral laws and procedures in handling election related cases, among several other reforms.

“This comprehensive policy document outlines a broad framework and initiatives in 17 thematic areas aimed at reforming the justice sector to enhance its effectiveness and accessibility to all Nigerians, ensuring that justice is not just a privilege for the few, but a right for all.

“The policy aims to address various challenges within the legal framework, seeking to promote social cohesion, bolster economic development, and foster good governance.

“In this regard, we intend to look at a situation where many cases will terminate at the court of appeal to reduce the burden on our noble justices of the Supreme Court.

“These proposed laws are expected to serve as a catalyst for collective action and provide a guiding framework for relevant governmental institutions at both the national and sub national levels to establish an effective, efficient, and people-centered justice system.”

Death Of Junior Pope: National Inland Waterways Provides More Insights

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Junior Pope died

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Further insights were provided on Thursday April 11 2024 into the tragic death of Nollywood Actor John Paul Odonwodo popularly known as Junior Pope.

The National Inland Waterways Authority NIWA confirmed that the  Actor, alongside two others died in the boat mishap.

The NIWA Area Manager Southeast, Suleiman Nicholas who confirmed the tragic incident, said twelve people were on board the Ill-fated boat ,with three persons still missing,while Seven people were rescued.

He stated that  among the two persons still missing in the boat mishap ,which occurred in the Akpaka area of Nsugbe in   Anambra East local council of Anambra state  are two female and a male.

Nicholas who was  fielding questions from the press said officials of the Authority are still at the scene of the accident ,in continuation of rescue operations and recovery activities.

The NIWA SouthEast Manager ,also announced that officials from the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, and security agencies, particularly the police ,are involved in the ongoing rescue and recovery activities.

However, he insisted that all reports concerning the cause of the boat mishap, and other information will, for now, be in the realm of speculations .

Accurate information about the tragic incident  will only be available after the conclusion of the rescue efforts by his officials, he said.

Ogbonnaya Onu: Peter Obi Mourns

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Peter Obi

Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, expressed deep sadness at the news of the passing of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, former Minister of Science and Technology. He described Onu’s death as a significant loss to the nation.

Dr. Onu, who also served as the first civilian governor of Abia State, passed away Thursday morning after battling an undisclosed illness.

In a condolence message issued to the press, Obi hailed Late Onu as a patriotic and inclusive Nigerian leader who served the nation diligently in various capacities. He highlighted Onu’s notable contributions to Nigeria’s educational advancement, both as a lecturer and an author.

“Dr. Onu epitomized leadership characterized by a commitment to peace, progress, and justice,” Obi’s message read. “He courageously championed equity and good governance, leaving a lasting impact on our nation.”

Obi further emphasized Onu’s efforts to promote local production for national development during his tenure as Minister. He extended his prayers to Onu’s grieving family and the entire nation mourning his loss.

“The passing of Dr. Onu is an immense loss to our nation. May God comfort his family and all of us as we mourn his departure, granting us the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. May he rest in eternal peace,” Obi concluded.

OPINION: South-East Dev. Comm: Unlocking Latent Fortunes, Fostering Inclusion

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Bola Tinubu

By Jerry Wohu

In a nation as diverse as Nigeria, fostering unity and ensuring equitable development across all regions is crucial for sustainable progress. So, the establishment of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC), represents a significant stride towards addressing historical disparities and promoting inclusivity in the nation.

Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the establishment of SEDC will embody a commitment to uplifting marginalised communities in the South East geopolitical zone and also foster national cohesion.

The inherent gains derived from an assented South-East Development Commission Bill will include:-

Liberating South-Eastern Nigeria from years of subtle neglect. The South-Eastern region of Nigeria has long grappled with infrastructural deficits, economic marginalisation, and social challenges. Despite its rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, the region has faced developmental barriers that have hindered its full potential. The creation of the SEDC will herald a new era of liberation for South-Eastern Nigeria, empowering its people and unlocking opportunities for growth.

Economic Empowerment:

The SEDC will play a pivotal role in catalyzing economic empowerment within the South-East. By investing in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, the commission will stimulate job creation and entrepreneurship. Access to funding, skills development programmes, and market linkages will empower local businesses, driving economic growth and reducing unemployment rates. Through targeted initiatives, the SEDC will harness the region’s untapped potential, positioning it as a hub for innovation and economic prosperity.

Infrastructure Development:

Infrastructure deficit has been a major impediment to progress in the South-East. The SEDC’s mandate will include the development of critical infrastructure such as roads, railway, and energy facilities. By enhancing connectivity and accessibility, the commission will spur trade and investment, facilitating the movement of goods and services across the region. Improved infrastructure will also enhance the quality of life for residents, providing better access to healthcare, education, and essential services.

Social Integration:

Promoting social integration and harmony is integral to the SEDC’s mission. Through community-based initiatives, the commission will foster dialogue, reconciliation, and understanding among groups in the South-East. Cultural exchange programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, and educational scholarships will promote social cohesion and celebrate the region’s diversity. By embracing inclusivity and tolerance, the SEDC will strengthen the social fabric of South-Eastern Nigeria, paving the way for peaceful co-existence and unity.

Beckoning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: A Champion of Unity and Development

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to national unity and inclusive development will be exemplified through the establishment of the SEDC. His visionary leadership and dedication to bridging regional disparities will set the stage for transformative change in South-Eastern Nigeria. By prioritizing the needs of marginalised communities and championing initiatives that promote unity and cohesion, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated his commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria for all.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a titan of vision and leadership, stands as a towering figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, revered for his unwavering commitment to the betterment of the nation in all its facets. The establishment of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) under his stewardship will stand as a testament to his foresight, compassion, and dedication to fostering national unity and progress.

President Tinubu’s visionary leadership has continually propelled Nigeria towards greater heights, steering the nation through turbulent waters with wisdom and resilience. His astute understanding of the intricate socio-economic dynamics has enabled him to identify the pressing needs of every region, including the long-neglected South-East. With the passing of the SEDC bill, President Tinubu would exhibit his profound empathy and commitment to ensuring that no corner of Nigeria is left behind.

Beyond mere rhetoric; President Tinubu has consistently translated his vision into action, spearheading initiatives that tangibly transform lives and uplift communities. The SEDC would stand as a shining example of his proactive approach to governance, as it embodies his belief in empowering the marginalised and fostering inclusive development. Through this bold move, President Tinubu would not have only addressed historical injustices but will also lay the groundwork for a more equitable and prosperous future for all Nigerians.

President Tinubu’s commitment to bettering Nigeria transcends partisan divides, embodying a statesmanlike ethos that prioritises the collective welfare over narrow interests. His tireless efforts to bridge regional divides and promote national unity have earned him the respect and admiration of Nigerians across the spectrum. With the establishment of the SEDC, President Tinubu will once again underscore his resolve to build a more cohesive and resilient nation, where every citizen can thrive and contribute to the nation’s progress.

In President Tinubu; Nigeria finds a leader whose visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and profound empathy continue to inspire hope and confidence in a brighter tomorrow. As history unfolds, his legacy as a catalyst for positive change and unity will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of the nation. Nigeria owes a debt of gratitude to President Tinubu for his transformative leadership and steadfast commitment to building a more prosperous and united nation for generations to come, even as all anticipate his assent to the SEDC Bill.

Conclusion

The South-East Development Commission represents a beacon of hope for the people of South-Eastern Nigeria. Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the SEDC will embody a bold step towards national unity, cohesion, and progress. By empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and promoting social integration, the SEDC will unlock the region’s full potential, thus driving Nigeria towards a brighter future characterised by shared prosperity and inclusivity.

* Jerry Wohu, Ph.D Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

Rivers: “Secondus, Others Are Fair-Weather Friends Who Encouraged Wike To Vie For President”

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Wike and Secondus

Chukwuemeka Woke, a former Chief of Staff to Nyesom Wike, has revealed that those fighting the former governor encouraged him to vie for president.

Woke’s remark is the latest in the ongoing war between the former governor, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and Governor Simi Fubara of Rivers state.

Governor Fubara rode on Wike’s support to office last year, but later charted his own path, leaving his predecessor in a serious anger.

In the ongoing battle for the soul of the state, some leaders in the state, including a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Uche Secondus are supporting the governor.

Apart from Secondus those on the side of the governor include Celestine Omehia, a former governor of the state and one-time Wike’s ally, amongst others.

These leaders recently issued a statement openly chastising the FCT Minister, blaming him for the protracted crisis in the oil rich state. They told Wike to leave Governor Fubara alone, to enable him concentrate on the governance of the state.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting of Emohua local government area held at the council’s secretariat on Wednesday, Woke said those supporting the governor are detractors who are trying to destroy the FCT minister’s image.

He said the detractors once ate and dinned with the FCT minister, that they even told him to run for president last year.

They have now turned against him, he stated, describing them as fair-weather friends.

The former CoS said: “The same group of people, on the 13th of December 2021 went and woke up our leader from sleep by 1 am. Twenty-seven of them signed and asked him to come and run for President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria when our leader was already sleeping.

“Our leader asked them if they would stand behind him and they said yes. When it was time for the Presidential primaries all of them ganged up against him. They should leave name-calling, when the time for name-calling comes we will go into that.”

Recall that Wike contested the PDP presidential ticket which he lost to Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president who later flew the party’s flag and lost to Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, APC.