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Israeli Envoy: Wike Replies Gumi, Sues For Peace

By
James Orji
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The meeting with the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman was basically to promote agriculture in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, the nation’s capital Minister, Nyesom Wike, has said.

The former Rivers state governor made this known after he was accused by Shehu Ahmed Gumi, an Islamic cleric that the minister was planning to bring Israeli security operatives to the country to kill Muslims.

He demanded that Wike be sacked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for having a meeting with the ambassador.

Gumi made the allegation last week amidst the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, a militant Islamic group in Gaza, Palestine designated by the United States and some European countries as a terrorist group.

The war was instigated by Hamas after they launched a surprise attack against Israelis, killing scores and taking over 150 people hostage, among them foreigners.

Foreign affairs analysts insist that the Islamic cleric capitalized on the war to attack the minister, to stir up anger among Muslims in the country.

Explaining the meeting he had with Freeman, the FCT minister, who spoke during a meeting with officials of the Abuja National Mosque management stated that he cannot determine the relations between Israel and Nigeria.

According to him, it’s the duty of President Bola Tinubu as the commander-in-chief to determine relations between Nigeria and other countries.

The FCT minister said he “cannot determine a relationship between a country and another country. So, it is difficult for anybody to say ‘I am doing this, I am doing that’.

He stated further: “Any foreign body that wants to have anything to do with Nigeria, it is the Minister of Foreign Affairs, who will write to me and state that these people want to see me; it is simple.

“ And when they come, it is in my position to say ‘look, we want to partner with you’. Take for instance, you are going into agriculture and we want to partner, then we tell you where exactly,” he explained.

“In Abuja here, most of them have cultural farms and we say look, it is our desire to help anybody who wants to invest in Abuja particularly in agriculture to employ our people and to get more revenue. It has nothing to do with another country. It doesn’t work that way.

“When our people begin to think from different angles, people may not understand that it is not correct. So, I will like to use this opportunity to say look we have to talk to our people. We must live harmoniously. We must live together to make sure that development is promoted,” Wike said.

Nigeria does not support any of the warring parties in the Israeli-Hamas conflict and has sued for peace in line with her neutrality posture in international diplomacy.

NURTW Crisis: Labour Minister, Lalong Is the Problem- President

By
James Orji
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Tajudeen Baruwa

Tajudeen Baruwa, President, National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, has accused Simone Lalong, the Minister of Labour and Employment of taking sides in the crisis that is currently rocking the union.

The allegation comes on the heels of a warning by the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, to the Minister not to try to foist a leadership on the union. Doing so, the NLC said will undermine the agreement recently reached by the federal government and organized labour, the union said.

The NLC also warned the minister that it will not accept any parallel congress organized by another faction of NURTW led by Tajudeen Agbede to elect new leaders for the union.

Speaking over the issue, Baruwa stated that peace will be hard to achieve in the union if the Minister continues to take sides with the other faction.

He stated this in a statement released on Sunday, issued by the General Secretary of the union, Anthony Chukwudi.

For peace to return to the union, the NURTW President urged the minister to “retrace his steps and desist” and desist from his meddlesomeness in the affairs of the transport union.

Baruwa said the union has already held an election in August this year, to elect its new executive, as provided by law.

Part of the statement said: “The minister held a clandestine meeting with the Agbede-led group of the union on Wednesday 18th, 2023, in his office where he allegedly made a statement when he asked the group to organise a fresh National Quadrennial Delegates Conference in contravention of the provisions of the union’s constitution particularly Article 8 Section 2 (1).

“It is pertinent to state here that the above-quoted article provides that the quadrennial delegates conference of the union shall be held in August of every four years.

“Recall that the same constitution was approved by the Ministry of Labour and Employment by the extant labour laws.

“According to a reliable source who was also present at the meeting but pleaded anonymity the Minister unequivocally said the group should go ahead and conduct a quadrennial delegates conference and that they cannot because one person allows the union to die or disintegrate.

“We would like the general public to know that such a statement coming from a government official who is expected to be an unbiased umpire will further aggravate the problem of the union instead of solving it.

“Also, we are shocked to discover that Agbede’s led group is still operating unhindered at the national secretariat of the union despite the directive issued by the same minister in a letter dated 9th October 2023 that suspended all the operations of both groups including further conduct of any election.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the union had on May 24, 2023, held its special zonal delegates conference in the six geopolitical zones of the union while those who emerged were sworn in on August 23, 2023, during the 10th Quadrennial National Delegates Conference at Ta’al Hotel in Lafia, Nasarawa State.”

The crisis in the union reached a boiling point recently after Baruwa was arrested and held in police custody for weeks.

The magazine learned that the intervention of the organized labour, the NLC and TUC led to his release because the two unions insisted in their negotiations with the federal government that Agbede’s release was one of the conditions to call off the planned nationwide strike over the removal of petrol subsidy.

Meanwhile, it was learned from reliable sources that some officials of the ruling APC and top government officials are doing everything to ensure that Agbede becomes the president of the union.

Agbede, a former Lagos NURTW chairman is an associate of Musiliu Akinsanya, aka MC Oluomo, the current chairman of the union in the state, and a close ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Benue Bloody Bank Robbery: IGP Says Sign Of What To Expect During Ember Months

By
Ayodele Oni
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Kayode Egbetokun - IGP

By Ayodele Oni

As News filtered that some of the suspects linked with the bloody bank Robbery in Benue state have been arrested, Inspector General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, has put police formations on alert, following the weekend incident at Otukpo, which claimed the lives of four senior officers.

While reacting to the incident, the IGP charged Commands and Formations to be on red alert to avert any further deadly attacks on institutions and innocent citizens of Nigeria.

According to him, the Otukpo attack was an early warning sign of the Ember Month challenges which is often characterized by bank robbery and other related crimes.

A statement by the Force Spokesman, Olumiyiwa Adejobi stated that the “IGP strongly condemns the recent armed bank robbery in Otukpo, Benue State, which resulted in the tragic loss of lives of both Police Officers and innocent civilians.

“This act of violence is an assault on the principles of peace, security, and justice that the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies work tirelessly to uphold.

“The IGP extends his heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims who were affected by this senseless act of violence.

“He noted that two of the suspects were gunned down by operatives while attempting to escape, adding that the assailants who orchestrated this brazen act of criminality have indeed “murdered sleep” as their actions have shaken the Otukpo community to its core, assuring the public that every resource and effort will be dedicated to ensuring that these individuals are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.

“In response to this grave incident, the Nigeria Police Force has initiated a comprehensive and coordinated effort to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.

“The IGP has ordered the deployment of additional operational and investigative assets and resources to Otukpo, the Benue State Command, and surrounding states to assist in the swift apprehension of the other fleeing criminals responsible for this atrocity, as a follow up to the gunning down of two of the armed robbers after a hot chase on Friday.

“In the same vein, going by this incident, the IGP has put all Commands and Formations on red alert to avert any further deadly attacks on our institutions and innocent citizens of Nigeria more so that the Otukpo attack was an early warning sign of the Ember Month challenges which is often characterized by bank robbery and other related crimes.

“We therefore call upon the public to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities by providing any information that may aid in the investigation and pursuit of the suspects.

“Your assistance is invaluable in our mission to restore safety and security in the affected area and across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

“In the wake of this tragedy, the IGP reiterates the NPF’s commitment to the safety and security of the Nigerian people, standing united against acts of violence and criminality and vowing to work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for this reprehensible act are brought to justice.”

Why Ekiti Remains Atop Of Integrity Watch Rating – Commissioner

By
Ayodele Oni
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Biodun Oyebanji

By Ayodele Oni

Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, has described a new report by the Center for Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch (CeFTIW) that placed Ekiti State top of its Index Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch list as well deserved and a prove of continuity of vision and performance.

The new index, which was released this month by the Center for Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch in collaboration with the MacArthur Foundation had placed Ekiti, Kaduna, Ondo, Lagos and Gombe states top of its Index Fiscal Transparency and Integrity Watch list and Bauchi, Adamawa, Benue, Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom states are bottom.

According to the report, public institutions are assessed on variables including Website integrity; Fiscal Transparency; Open procurement; Anti-corruption; Citizens Engagement/Responsiveness and Human Resources and Inclusion in all 36 states of the federation.

The Index, the first of its kind in Africa, is research on public institutions’ compliance with principles of transparency, integrity, and open governance, drawn from national and international principles.

The Index seeks to promote citizens’ access to information and participation in governance by encouraging government institutions to proactively disclose information on governance.

The international principles were drawn from United Nations Convention against Corruption, Financial Action Task Force, African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption, UK Anti-corruption Summit 2016 and Open Government Partnership.

The local principles are drawn from the Bureau of Public Procurement Act, Federal Character Principles, The Freedom of Information Act, 2011; The Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007; Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 and Executive Order No. 001, 2017.

Recalling that Ekiti was second in 2021, first in 2022 and has now retained its first position in 2023, Olatunbosun noted that “it is very rare to retain such a position, especially in a transition period, unless there’s strong commitment from the new Government to entrench existing reforms.”

Describing the State workforce as dependable and efficient, the Commissioner commended the consistent level of performance which led to the feat.

“We acknowledge the staff of various MDAs who have worked over time to make this happen: Ministry of Budget, Planning & Performance Management; Ministry of Finance; Bureau of Public Procurement; Bureau of ICT; Offices of the Accountant and Auditors General. Without the civil servants in these MDAs, such a consistent level of performance won’t have been possible.”

The commissioner assured that Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration will not relent efforts at ensuring good governance, while rapidly developing the State and improving the lot of the people.

Olatunbosun urged stakeholders, particularly public servants, to continually support efforts of Government at “keeping the State working towards shared prosperity.

”The challenge of being at the top is staying there and that’s what we must continue to achieve over the life of this administration.

Kogi Nov.11 : APC Says Melaye, Abejide Stand No Chance

By
James Orji
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Yahaya Bello
Yahaya Bello

The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, says the state is a no-go area for other political parties in the November 11 governorship election.

The Governor Yahaya Bello-led party in the Confluence state is set against top political parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Labour Party, LP, and others in the decisive election.

Watchers of the state politics insist that the election is a two-horse race between the APC candidate Usman Ododo and PDP candidate Dino Melaye, a former senator and Chairman of, the Senate Committee on Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

The African Democratic Party, ADP, governorship candidate, Leke Joseph Abejide, representing Yagba Federal Constituency, analysts say has been making a good showing in the make-or-mar election set to take place in less than three weeks.

According to checks from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, 18 political parties have been registered to take part in the election.

The ruling APC has, however, told the other parties not to waste their time and resources, and that it’s set for a victory.

The party made this known in a statement issued by Governor Bello’s Chief Press Secretary, Onogwu Muhammed, on Saturday, saying the party has recorded enough landmark achievements to emerge victorious.

The governor’s spokesman boasted that  the ranks of the APC in the state has recently been swelled  by members of other political parties, a sign that the people of the state has confidence in APC.

The statement said, “Our party has a stellar track record in Ochadamu ward, and the upcoming election will be no different. Even those who previously stood in opposition to us have now chosen to join our ranks. We are committed to expanding the margin of victory between the APC and the runner-up in the forthcoming election.

“With our strong presence in the 3,508 polling units and 239 wards across the state, the odds are decidedly in our favor.

“We proudly count three Senators, six out of nine House of Representatives members, and 24 out of 25 House of Assembly members among our ranks. Given the remarkable performance of the current administration, which has endeared our party to the people, it is all but certain that we will secure a resounding victory on November 11.”

Meanwhile, the PDP has promised to ensure local government autonomy if the party wins the election in a few weeks. Not a few Nigerians are demanding LGA autonomy in other to have grassroot development.

Samdaddy Fights SE PDP, Insists He Is Still National Secretary, Goes To Court

By
The Source
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0

By Charles Igbo

Less than one month to the Imo State Governorship Election scheduled for November 11, 2023, the Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, popular as Samdaddy, is embroiled in a fight with the leadership of the South-east Zone of the Party.

The very active fight which is already before the Court, and could affect the performance of the Party on November 11, is  over who occupies the office of the National Secretary of the Party.

The Governorship Candidate of the Party in Imo, Senator Anyanwu, was on Friday, removed from office by the Leadership of the Party in the South-East Zone. In his place, the Zone, at a Press briefing on Friday, held in Enugu, which was addressed by the National Vice Chairman, South East Zone, Chief Ali Odefa, picked Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye to succeed Anyanwu as the National Secretary.

The office is zoned to the South-east by the PDP.

Giving reasons for  Anyanwu’s replacement, Odefa who urged all PDP members in the Zone, and especially, Imo State, to put all hands on deck in order to install Anyanwu as the next Governor of Imo State, said it was to enable Anyanwu to concentrate on his campaign for the Governorship Election.

“We have resolved that as South-east members of the PDP, we must all do our utmost best to support our Candidate in the November 11 Gubernatorial Election in the person of Senator Samuel Anyanwu to win. All Party members in Imo State are encouraged to put in their best”, Odefa said.

But he said Anyanwu should now concentrate on his campaign and relinquish the office of the National Secretary. In that wise, Odefa said the Zone has taken a decision to replace him with Udeh-Okoye.

Odefa: “The position of the National Secretary will be a kind of distraction to his electioneering campaign and victory at the polls.Therefore, the South-east Zone, having met and brainstormed, we have come up with a nomination from Enugu State in the person of Rt. Hon. S.K. Udeh-Okoye to replace Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party. We shall send our resolutions in writing to the National Working Committee of our great Party for ratification on behalf of the National Executive Committee as provided by our Party Constitution.”

A Kick from BoT

Days before Samdaddy’s replacement by the South-east PDP Zone, the Board of Trustees, BoT, of the Party, in a statement by its Acting Chairman, Dr Adolphus Wabara, had asked Anyanwu to quit the office of the National Secretary and face his Governorship Campaign. In same way not a few members of the faction of the crisis-ridden Imo PDP, had, on a number of times, asked Anyanwu to quit the office, and concentrate on his Campaign. But to all, Anyanwu turned a deaf ear.

Support from National Leadership

Within the period the BoT asked for his stand-down, and while the story of his imminent removal raged, especially among PDP members in Imo, the National Leadership of the Party backed Anyanwu.

In a statement, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba said the news of Anyanwu’s removal should be ignored and that Anyanwu “remains the National Secretary of the PDP.” But the call for him to quit persisted by, in particular, “a faction” of the Party in Imo State.

Anyanwu Goes To Court

On October 20, 2023, Anyanwu raised the ante on his decision to hold on to both his schedule as the National Secretary and his Campaign for Governorship.

Just before the meeting of the SE Zone of the Party in Enugu,  Anyanwu, who was absent at the meeting, asked his Lawyer to write to Odefa and warn him against holding the meeting, and trying to replace him in office, citing a suit in Court which he instituted.

His Lawyer informed informed that Anyanwu would be absent at the meeting, and advised Odefa and Co. to keep off out of respect for the Court case.

The letter written by Emmanuel Ukweni Esq of Emmanuel Ukweni and Associates, and addressed to Odefa, was titled: Notice of pending suit No HUK/42/2023, in respect of ZEC Meeting of PDP, South-east fixed for today the 20th of October, 2023

It reads: “Our services have been retained  by Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu,  the 10th defendant in the above cited case at the High Court of Abia State, in the Ukwa Judicial Division, holden at Obehie.

“In the light of the nature of claims sought in the above suit, we have advised our client not to take any step that will render the suit nugatory.

“Accordingly, our Client will neither be at ZEC meeting holding today, (Friday), or be bound  by the decision/s of the meeting.

“Finally, if we are to render gratuitous advice as ministers in the Temple of Justice,  we would urge you to take the same civilised path as our client has.

“We do hope wise counsel prevail.”

PDP Gubernatorial Campaign Organisation Reacts

And, in a long statement issued on October 21, 2023, the  Imo State PDP 2023 Gubernatorial Campaign Organisation, dismissed   Anyanwu’s removal by the PDP SE Zone as null and void.

Titled Samuel Anyanwu Is Still The National Secretary Of PDP, and signed by Barrister Gozie Nwachukwu, Director of Administration and Spokesperson for the Campaign, it reads:

“Our campaign Organization and by extension our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP seize this opportunity to set the records straight and rightly inform our supporters, the good people of Imo state and the general public on certain stories making the rounds that,

our candidate and the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Sen Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu has been replaced by the Zonal Executive Committee of our party and that his continued stay in office as National Secretary has nullified the PDP votes in the upcoming election.

“Ordinarily, our campaign wouldn’t have given any thought to these materials of propaganda being orchestrated and hatched by persons who abdicated a responsibility to confront  the monstrous and inept government we have in Imo state today and their cohorts, but we wish to dutifully and with full legal responsibility inform the general public that there’s no legal standing or any possibility of the realization of any of these mere wishes of the detractors of good governance that the PDP represents to the Imo people.

“Firstly, the office of the National Secretary Of PDP, other offices and organs of the party are all creations of the PDP constitution and therefore their election, nomination, operations and removal from office can only be guided by the provisions of the constitution of the Party and nothing more.

“Notably, section 47 (1) of the PDP constitution clearly states that the tenure of elected officers of the PDP is four years (4), Senator Anyanwu was elected as national Secetary in November 2021 PDP National Convention and so his tenure has not expired.

“Secondly, the PDP constitution in section 47(5) provides for resignation of officers of the party but clearly says that if an officer of the party wants to run for public office, his mode of resignation will be as stipulated in the guidelines for that election as made by the national executive committee of the party.

The guidelines for the 2023 elections made by the National Executive Committee of the party, did not provide for resignation of officers of the party as a condition to vie for an elective office, that’s why, the current governor of Zamfara state His Excellency, Dauda Lawal Phd ran for the Governorship of Zamfara State while stilll serving as the state chairman of Zamfara state PDP and only resigned after being elected.

Also, the candidate of the PDP in the Delta Central  Senatorial election in the 2023 National Assembly elections, Senator Amori Ighoyota, ran same election while still in office as the Deputy National Organising Secretary of the party, this is in line with the Peoples Democratic Party’s Constitution, therefore Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu has not in any way contravened the Constitution or guidelines of the party or any electoral law in force in Nigeria.

“Thirdly, section 47(6) of the PDP constitution provides that  if and when a vacancy occurs at any executive committee of the party,that it is the particular executive committee where there is a vacancy that will nominate a replacement. Now the begging questions are, is their a vacancy in the office of the National Secetary Of PDP, offcourse no, also is the south east Zonal Committee the appropriate committee to nominate a replacement for the office of the National Secretary of the PDP, the answer is No.  It’s the duty of the National Working Committee when vacancy exist.

“So what is the fuss all about, unfortunately it seems that some persons are actively working with the rejected and underperforming Hope Uzodinmma to derail the fortunes of our Party in the November 11 elections.

We further state that the comical story of PDP votes being voided by Our Candidates continued stay in office as National Secretary and candidate of our party, is laughable as Gov Dauda Lawal of Zamfara state who won his election had no such issues with the PDP votes in Zamfara.

“So the question is, why all these attacks on Senator Anyanwu and the PDP in Imo state.

“Or is it as a result of the overwhelming support our candidate, Sen Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu enjoys by the day and has been adjudged as the man to beat in the forthcoming Governorship election. Unfortunately, some persons who believe that if anybody will be governor of Imo state from Owerri Zone extraction, such person must be them or receive their blessings.

“We are surprised how suddenly these desperate persons are now in bed with the same Man who hijacked the governorship victory of our party in 2020,  truly men of honour are better known in times of adversity.

“We hereby, in line with the earlier position of the National Working Committee as stated in a release by the erudite National Publicity Secretary of our Great Party, Hon. Barr. Debo Ologunagba  clearly stating that there’s no vacancy in the office of the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, and hereby call on our teeming Party faithfuls, supporters and the great and anxious people of Imo state who have demonstrated so much enthusiasm  for the return of our party to power, not to be dismayed or deceived by these machinations of men of easy virtue, they have failed and cannot stop the match of Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the PDP and the Imo masses to restore safety and prosperity in Imo  come November 11 2023.

“We also want to use this opportunity, on behalf of our candidates Distinguished Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu and Rt. Hon. Jones Chukwudi Onyereri PhD, to thank the good people of Imo state for coming out enmass in solidarity with our vision for a safer and better Imo State on the day of our campaign Flagoff, we will not let you down.

“Please our dear Imolites don’t be distracted by rumours and propaganda, continue to spread the message that our candidate and party are coming to make our dear Imo safe and Prosperous Again, encourage everybody to come out and vote without fear of Intimidation as the Egyptians you saw during  the last general elections in Imo state, you shall see them no more.”

No doubt, the PDP and Anyanwu go into the November 11 Governorship Election divided and distracted. This order day when he flagged off his Campaign in Owerri, Anyanwu found himself literally abandoned by a number of who-is-who in the Imo PDP, including Rt Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, still seen by not a few as the face of the PDP in the State, BoT member/former Governor, Achike Udenwa and the most ridiculous, Anyanwu’s Campaign Director General, Ikenga Ugochinyere, recently  sacked from the Federal House of Representatives by the Imo Election Tribunal.

Many hold Anyanwu responsible for Ugochinyere’s fate.

Prophet Without Honour At Home

For the records, the Imo PDP   has been battling internal crisis since the emergence of Anyanwu as the National Secretary. He was not embraced by the State Working Committee, and his office was not accorded the recognition and respect it deserved.

Anyanwu’s sin is allegedly his non-support of Ihedioha in 2019. Ihedioha was the PDP Candidate in 2019 after he won the Party Primaries in which Anyanwu also participated. But Anyanwu never accepted Ihedioha’s victory, and went to Court. Even when Ihedioha was declared winner of the Governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC,  Anyanwu shunned appeals to him to let go, and pursued his case against Ihedioha to the Supreme Court. He lost.

When Ihedioha was removed from office by the Supreme Court in favour of Senator Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Anyanwu, allegedly, celebrated as PDP mourned.

He was never forgiven by most PDP members in the State. “We are paying him back in his coin said a PDP chieftain in the State.”

In the run-up to the November 11 Imo Governorship election, not a few people believe a divided  PDP is not likely to be a challenge to the incumbent Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma. Said another PDP chieftain in the State to this magazine “Anyanwu and PDP will likely make no impact. We lost it when Ihedioha withdrew from the race. It was a big opportunity we lost.”

However, as the saying goes, time will tell.

“All Our Votes For Uzodimma” – Orlu women Declare; Governor, Wife Appreciate Them

By
The Source
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0
Hope Uzodimma - Imo Civil Servant Promotion

Orlu women in their numbers met on Saturday at Owerre Nkworji  in Nkwerre Local Government Area of Imo State and took a firm decision to cast all their votes for Governor Hope Uzodimma come November 11, 2023.

They pledged that no single vote of theirs would escape Governor Uzodimma’s All Progressives Congress (APC) ballot box.

The women, no fewer than 5,000 and all gorgeously dressed, said that the Governor has done so well to deserve their votes, not just for the women from Orlu zone, but for all the women and entire people of Imo State.

Orlu zone has 12 Local Government Areas in Imo State and critical to determining who becomes Governor in Imo State.

The women further noted that they are also in support of the Charter of Equity, hence returning Governor Uzodimma to office next month would help to consummate the idea and return of power to another zone when he completes his second term as decided by the Imo State Council of Elders.

The Chairman of the occasion, former Minister of State, Education, Rt. Hon.

Goodluck Opiah, thanked the women for the rally and their thoughtfulness and resolve to vote massively for Governor Uzodimma, reminding them that the Governor has done so much for them in particular and the people of Imo State in general, to deserve their votes.

Opiah urged the women to reciprocate the love Governor Uzodimma has showered on them with their votes by November 11 and assured them that they will not regret their resolve to cast all their ballots for him to be re-elected.

Speaker after speaker in their goodwill messages reminded the Orlu women that Governor Uzodimma has done so well for Imo State that he deserves their votes and support to continue with the good work he is doing in Imo State.

Those who gave goodwill messages include the Senator representing Imo West, Sen. Osita Izunaso,  the wife of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mrs Oby Anyaehie, the wife of the Deputy Speaker of Imo State, Mrs Adaora Iwuanyanwu, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hajia Rabiu Ibrahim, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Nkechi Ugwu ( Chairman, Central Working Committee for the rally), among others.

In her remarks, the Guest Speaker, Dr. (Mrs.) Raymonda Ngozi Obioha, who is the Deputy Registrar, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri told the Orlu women that their choice of  Governor Uzodimma for the November 11 is perfect.

She thanked them for the rally and extolled the  proper planning and its overall success.

The Governor’s wife, Barr. Chioma Uzodimma in her address expressed great delight over the rally and said she is confident that the women will not disappoint her.

She reminded them of all the good things the Governor has done for the women in the area of health, women empowerment, youth empowerment, education, among others and urged the Orlu women to use their votes to continue to encourage the Governor to do more for them. She assured them that her husband will not disappoint them, because he loves to care for the women.

The First Lady assured her fellow Orlu women that after November 11 they will all march together to the Government House to celebrate the re-election of their Governor.

In his remarks, Governor Uzodimma thanked the women for their unlimited support for his administration and promised to do more for them on re-election.

The Governor who reminded them that there is time for everything, said the time has come to take Imo State to that level when everyone will be pleased because of the good governance his government is determined to provide.

Governor Uzodimma reminded the women that his preoccupation now is to help to alleviate hardship in Imo State and that concerning the coming election, he remains the most qualified person to take Imo State to that destination that everyone will be proud of.

He said that he has no fear that the women are for him and will support him, adding, “I appreciate the love the women have shown to me and I will reciprocate the love with good governance.”

Governor Uzodimma urged them to come out on November 11 to cast their votes without and fear and to prove to those who stole his mandate in 2019 before God helped him to recover it that the votes they gave to him then were real.

The event was attended by key political stakeholders from Orlu zone, both men,  women and youths.

CNPP Urges Senate President To Declare Ifeanyi Ubah’s Seat Vacant Over Defection

By
The Source
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0

  • Gives EFCC 14-days To Reopen Corruption Cases Against Ubah, Capital Oil

Conference Of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has reacted to the defection of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in what it described as “a most likely plea-bargain with the APC amid his many unresolved corruption allegations.”

In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, James Ezema, the CNPP vowed to rally allied civil society organisations in the country after 14 days to compel the President of the Senate to give effect to the provisions of section 68 (1) (g) of the 1999 constitution (as amended) by seat of the Senator representing the people of Anambra South Senatorial District vacant.

The CNPP also vowed to take all possible steps to get the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to revisit many unresolved corruption allegations against the Capital Oil Boss at the expiration of its 14-day ultimatum, saying that “APC’s ideology of forgiving the sins of defectors into the party is detrimental to the deepening of democracy and a hindrance to the rule of law in Nigeria.”

According to the CNPP, “it is not surprising that Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s defection and the withdrawal of the Federal High Court case of alleged N135bn indebtedness brought against him and his company, Capital Oil and Gas limited, by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) happened almost within 48 hours.

“The charge was struck out by Justice Nicholas Oweibo following an oral application by counsel for AMCON, Oluwaseun Onabowu, seeking the withdrawal of the suit.

“Therefore, Nigerians have every reason to believe that the APC government cleared Senator Ubah and Capital Oil to pave way for his immediate defection to the ruling party.

“It was obvious, even to the blind, that Ifeanyi Ubah’s claim of being impressed by President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda was a false reason.

“Senator Ubah had also claimed that the APC’s commitment to good governance, economic development and social progress were part of the reasons for his defection whereas the provisions of section 68 of the constitution are very clear on cross-carpeting by elected National Assembly members.

“Every informed observer can quickly deduce that it was a type of “defect and have your sins forgiven arrangement”, in attempt to rob the people of Anambra South Senatorial District who voted YPP of their constitutional rights to choose a political party to vote into any position”, the CNPP said.

Vowing to rally allied civil society organisations after 14 days to compel the EFCC to reopen cases against the Senator, despite whatever perceived defection arrangements between Senator Ubah and APC’s hierarchy, the CNPP said “no stone will be left unturned until the N43 billion subsidy fraud by the EFCC is reopened.

“It is shocking that despite getting the nod of the Court of Appeal to continue its investigation and possibly prosecute Capital Oil and Gas Limited and its Managing Director, now Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, for their alleged complicity in the N43.29bn fraud perpetrated through the petroleum subsidy scheme, the EFCC went into coma over the matter since May 12, 2017.

“Recall that in the unanimous judgment of a three-man bench of the Court of Appeal headed by Justice Tinuade Akomolafe-Wilson the EFCC was cleared to probe and bring the Senator to a trial court.

“The lead judgment was prepared by Justice Emmanuel Agim, and was consented to by Justice Akomolafe-Wilson and Justice Tani Yusufu.

“This is just one among other allegations of corruption against Senator Ifeanyi Ubah or his company.

“We then call on the EFCC to immediately explain to Nigerians why it is yet to charge Senator Ifeanyi Ubah and his company to court since 2017, leaving Nigerians to continue to suffer while persons accused of looting public funds continue to remain in office rather than prison”, the said.

Gov Oyebanji Says Ekiti Elders Are Pillars Of Strength, Promises More Support

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Biodun Oyebanji

By Ayodele Oni

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, rounded up weeklong celebration marking one year in office on Saturday with an interactive session with elderly citizens in the state.

During the ceremony, held in Ado Ekiti, the governor assured that his government will continue to accord senior citizens the deserved respect and initiate programmes that will transform their lives and make their old age more comfortable.

Oyebanji disclosed that the payment of gratuities and pension, introduction of emergency programmes in all medical facilities and reintroduction of social security scheme for the elderly, were conceptualized to reduce the elders’ stress, sufferings and neglect in governance.

The governor, represented by his Deputy, Monisade Afuye, said his plan and focus on assumption of office, was to create a state, whereby all the strata of the society, regardless of age, religion, ethnicity and political leanings will enjoy the dividends of democracy under him.

The Governor  saluted the elders for deploying their youthful vitality of the past  to serve the state and fought for its creation, saying his government will continually treat them with respect.

“What I want is a State where everyone regardless of age, gender, religion, or ethnicity will live happily and thrive.

“We made payment of pensions our priority and also defrayed some outstanding gratuities of retirees at the State and Local Government levels. On health care, the government established  Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) in the council areas to improve response to health emergencies.

“We also expanded the Health Insurance Intervention from five councils to 10. Also, as part of the rural development plan, 43.4km of farm roads have been constructed across some LGAs. I assure you that this government will continue to do its best to ensure the welfare of our senior citizens.

“I am immensely grateful to Ekiti elders for your support, guidance, and prayers. Especially, I thank the Ekiti Council of Elders for their commitment and contributions to Ekiti development”.

Oyebanji added that he was  aware of the National Senior Citizens Act and the establishment of a dedicated centre by the Federal Government to ensure that the rights of older persons are mainstreamed in all programmes and activities.

“As the State accords due attention to our senior citizens, I urge families to also take care of their aged parents and relations.

“An elderly person at home is like a living golden treasure. We are to take care of our aged effectively while alive, it is then that celebrating them when they are no more will be meaningful.”

In his response, the Chairman of the Ekiti Council of Elders, Prof. Joseph Oluwasanmi, said the sudden removal of fuel subsidy really had a toll on the elders, which he said makes it imperative for government to design policies that would cushion the effect on this category of the Nigerian population.

Oluwasanmi, a Professor of Medicine and Surgery, lauded Oyebanji for his  achievements in one year in office, particularly for being committed to factor all the citizens into his policies.

“We will continue to support and pray for the success of your administration. We have seen how you have been working hard to make Ekiti great. We are proud of your modest achievements.”

“I Have Not Endorsed Any Governorship Candidate” – Bayelsa Monarch

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0
King Ebifatei Edi Mangi

By Akinwale Kasali

King Ebifatei Edi Mangi, the Monarch of Koluama Kingdom in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area in Bayelsa State has asked politicians to stop fanning the embers of hatred and dragging his name into politics.

He vehemently debunked claims that he has endorsed a Candidate ahead of the November 11 Governorship Election in the State.

In a Statement Saturday, the Traditional Ruler said that as the custodian of the culture and tradition of his people, he has remained non-partisan and neutral in political issues.

Edi-Mangi, who is addressed as Kolu XI, Ibenanaowei of Koluama Kingdom, was reacting to what he labelled as unfounded claims of endorsement of a standard bearer by some politicians, particularly on social media.

He said that he had, at no time, expressed support for any governorship flagbearer for the forthcoming polls.

“I have a sacred duty to ensure that the cultural heritage and values of the people of Koluama Kingdom are preserved. I have never let political affiliations interfere with my responsibilities”, he said.

Edi-Mangi said any narrative linking him to the purported endorsement circulating in the social media was the figment of imagination of the purveyors, and should be totally disregarded.

The Monarch stressed that  he is a firm advocate of peace and unity in Bayelsa, and called on all political actors and their followers to embrace peace, shun violence and work together to build a progressive state.

While emphasising the importance of peaceful co-existence and unity among the people, he said: “We should put aside our differences and come together for the greater good of our state. Violence and division only hinder our progress. Let us focus on the issues that truly matter – the development and prosperity of Bayelsa.”

He warned those who might have been misled or misunderstood the situation, despite their interest and passion for the political process, to channel their energies to positive and meaningful endeavours that would benefit the community.

The royal father restated his firm commitment to his traditional role as a symbol of unity and culture, and urged the people to stand together in the spirit of peace and progress.

“Bayelsa State’s future is bright, and together, we can achieve great things for our beloved state”, he said.

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