By Akinwale Kasali
Olumide Akpata, former Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, President, has been declared winner of the Labour Party, LP, Governorship Primary in Edo State.
Akpata scored 316 votes to emerge winner of the keenly contested Primary Election.
Ikechukwu Emetu, Abia State Deputy Governor, who was the Returning Officer of the Primary declared Akpata winner and the Party’s Candidate at the Governorship Poll slated for a later date in the year.
…Details later
By Daniel Maduka
With the 2027 political race still far away, Aba traders ,and major players in the business landscape of Abia state have assured that the mandate given to Governor Alex Otti, will be renewed, going by the level of focus and commitments which he has shown in the governance of the state within less than a year in the saddle.
This is even as they have called on the Governor to liaise with all relevant entities concerned to ensure adequate and regular power supply to the commercial nerve centre of Abia state .
Sir Jonathan Oguejiofor, Chairman Eziukwu Road International Market Stakeholders Forum Aba who spoke in an interview with the Source on Friday February 23, 2024, also appreciated the Abia State authorities for the high quality of the membership of the Chief Alphonsus Udeigbo led newly appointed Abia State Amalgamated Traders Association ASMATA.
Sir Oguejiofor who is also Grand Patron and Stakeholders Chairman of Eziukwu Road Market Aba ,noted that with the massive transformation of Aba and Abia state in general, through unprecedented infrastructural renewal, which has in turn impacted positively on the growth and development of economic activities the government of Dr Otti, has spoken eloquently about its readiness to change the narrative of Abia .
Chief Ogujiofor, who is one the prominent business and Industry captains of Aba, said if Governor Otti, can finish the reconstruction of the all important PortHarcourt/Aba road ,in addition to the commendable efforts on. other roads and infrastructural facilities such as the Eziukwu Road ,his second term in office is secured.
“Without sounding sycophantic, let me say with all humility and sincerity that Governor Otti, is not just a blessing to Abians, but also to Ndigbo.
Until, he came on board ,we never knew and believed that there is sincerity of purpose in the state’s governance space.
We are grateful to God ,for using the present government of Abia state to visit his people. The true meaning of democracy dividends is now dawning on us , Abia resident” Oguejiofor stated.
The Chairman Eziukwu Road Market Stakeholders, expressed optimism that the interests, and welfare of Abia state traders have been placed in safe hands ,going by the exceptional antecedents of the members of the recently appointed ASMATA members.
While pledging the continued support and cooperation of Aba traders in particular, and Abia business community in general to the Governor Otti led administration, Sir Ogujiofor called for steady power supply to Aba.
“It is true that the Governor does not have much control over the power situation. But we are calling on him to exact pressure on the relevant entities concerned to improve the power supply situation in Aba .
The epileptic power supply situation at the moment is slowing down business activities and at the same time negatively affecting the internally Generated Revenue profile of the State. Let us hope that ,with Geometric commissioning their power Plant the problem will be ameliorated.
By Akinwale Kasali
The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, has lamented the poor remuneration of Professors in Nigerian Universities. It also accused the Government of perpetuating lawlessness in the Universities across the country.
ASUU said the Government must ensure that adequate attention is paid to the education system as the country would be doomed without quality education.
It frowned at the continued neglect of its Staff by the Government, as they earn meager amounts to services rendered.
ASUU called on the Governments to address the lingering issues in Universities and insisted that public University education was deliberately being toyed with by Governments and their officials to keep the masses in a perpetual state of illiteracy and exploitation.
The ASUU Bauchi Zone called on the Government to make full payments of their owed salaries, restoration of Governing Councils (where there are none) for the smooth running of the Universities as the use of Vice Chancellors to run Universities are illegal.
ASUU Acting ZonalCoordinator, Prof. Nanmwa Voncir said that when ASUU held its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at the Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, the Union did a comprehensive review of the state of its engagements with Federal and State Governments on how to reposition Nigeria’s public Universities for a global reckoning by arresting the worsening living and working conditions in the Universities and the nation at large.
It added that ASUU is deeply disturbed by the reports received, on the failure of the Federal Government of Nigeria to fulfil its promises to the Union. We are greatly concerned with the continuing decay in the University system including the unabated brain drain.
He listed the lingering issues to include, renegotiation of the FGN/ASUU 2009 agreement, withheld salaries, arrears of earned academic allowances, illegal dissolution of Governing Councils, Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System, IPPIS, Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standard, CCMAS, the proliferation of Universities, TETFund intervention, underfunding of Universities and the deepening socioeconomic crisis.
It added that the promises made by the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila are yet to be fulfilled, even as Gbajabiamila is the Chief of Staff to the President and Commander-in-Chief.
“There is no justification for withholding lecturers’ salaries if not for the grand design of the ruling class to emasculate and ridicule them. Members of ASUU have since made up for lost ground, covering two academic sessions in many Universities within the period, in addition to the fact that Research/ Community service of academic staff responsibilities never suffered during the strike period”, the Union said.
ASUU called on the Federal Government to, “as a matter of urgency, release all the withheld salaries and third-party deductions of our members to restore their fading hope in the Nigerian University system and Nigeria as a country. This is the only way industrial disharmony can be avoided.”
By Ayodele Oni
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that the 2023 general elections saw victories for four political parties, in the governorship while seven parties secured senatorial seats, eight in federal constituencies, and nine in State legislatures.
The electoral umpire in a detailed report on the last year’s poll released on Friday, indicated a broad shift in political representation across Nigeria.
A statement, signed by Sam Olumekun, the national commissioner in charge of Information and Voter Education, revealed that the report was reviewed and approved for publication during the Commission’s weekly meeting on Thursday, February 22, 2024.
In adherence to a tradition of transparency, INEC announced the release of the official report, a 526-page document organized into 13 chapters.
“Enriched with 60 tables, 14 boxes, and 10 graphs, the report offers a thorough analysis of key processes, achievements, and challenges of the 2023 General Election.
Highlighting the election’s diversity in party representation, the report notes significant democratic progress.
“Gubernatorial races saw victories for four political parties, while seven parties secured senatorial seats, eight in federal constituencies, and nine in State legislatures, indicating a broad shift in political representation across Nigeria.”
The report emphasized the pivotal role of technological advancements, particularly the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), in enhancing electoral integrity and reducing fraud.
Addressing public concerns, it provided insights into the technical issues faced during the upload of polling unit results for the presidential election on the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal.
Logistics, security arrangements, staff recruitment and training, inclusivity measures, and the electoral framework are among the various aspects covered in the comprehensive report.
By Akinwale Kasali
Incarcerated Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu would see his Lawyers move for his Bail Application on Monday, February 26th, 2024, pending the determination of his trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
It was gathered that the proposed release on bail for Kanu will be based on “life-threatening medical conditions, namely: the heart ailment, the hypertension and the potassium deficiency.”
Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Security, DSS, since his repatriation from Kenya in 2021 during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The IPOB Leader is facing trial bordering on terrorism among others but the Appeal Court discharged and acquitted him of all charges.
However, in December 2023, the Supreme Court overturned the ruling and returned the case to the Abuja Federal High Court for continuation of trial.
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has fixed February 26 for the resumption of Kanu’s terrorism trial.
Feelers from the IPOB Camp has it that the lawyers are working for bail based on his lack of privacy during visitations with his legal team, which adversely affected his constitutional right to counsel and adequacy of facility for the preparation of his defense.
The lawyers will also argue that he had already spent a cumulative period of 50 months or over four years in “pretrial detention”.
According to the court document sighted by Vanguard, with suit no: FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015, the IPOB leader’s lawyers said, “On the basis of the foregoing, we respectfully urge Your Lordship to admit him to bail on liberal and non-excessive terms.”
In the Motion on Notice brought in pursuant to sections 6(6), 35 and 36(5), and sections 158, 161 and 162 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, the legal team will pray the court for “an order of this Honourable Court admitting the Applicant/Defendant to bail pending the determination of his trial.
By Ayodele Oni
President Bola Tinubu has urged the nation to cherish late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s memory and the indomitable legacy he leaves behind.
In a eulogy at the St Andrews Cathedral, Owo , Ondo state, read on behalf of the President by Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Tinubu noted that “memories we hold dear will be a source of comfort in difficult times.”
He described Akeredolu, as a “fearless soldier” and “unwavering advocate” for his people.
“We are gathered here today to bid farewell to a remarkable soul, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON,” the President began, reflecting on the transience of life and the enduring impact of our choices.
He lauded Akeredolu’s courage, dedication, and his unwavering stance as “a fearless soldier for his people.”
“As we gather here today, we are confronted with one inexorable truth: seasons come and seasons go, much like the ebb and flow of our lives, and each of us shall go with the tides one after the other.
“We are also reminded that in this transient journey through life, we are but whispers in the wind. The parts of us that endure after we get to the end of our journey are the choices we make, and this moment is the ultimate confirmation of the noble paths trodden by our dear brother.”
President Tinubu traced Akeredolu’s journey, from his distinguished legal career to his pivotal role as Governor of Ondo State.
He praised his vast intelligence and the profound impact of his leadership, noting that ” There was no point in life where his voice shook in telling his truth. He was a vastly intelligent man whose passion has created quite a wide vacuum beyond this community.”
The President emphasized Akeredolu’s commitment to serving through democratic means, stating that “he recognized that the most pragmatic path to serving humanity is to present ourselves willingly to be chosen by the people.”
He commended his strength of character and conviction, acknowledging the sacrifices he made to serve his community.
While acknowledging the grief of the nation, President Tinubu emphasized that this day was not just about mourning. “Today is a day of remembrance, a day to pay our respects, a day to reflect on the fact that our friend and brother served humanity to the best of his abilities.
“And may God, in His infinite mercy, repose Rotimi Akeredolu’s soul and bring solace to his loved ones.”
By Akinwale Kasali
Disturbed by the soaring price of Cooking Gas that has made some Nigerians resort to using firewood and charcoal, the Federal Government has banned the exportation of Cooking Gas till the local demand is met.
Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State Petroleum Resources, lamented that the prices of Cooking Gas has increased astronomically from N1,030 per Kilogram to N1,400 per Kilogram and above in some States, saying this has led to the ban on exportation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LPG, also known as Cooking Gas.
The Minister made this disclosure at a workshop in Abuja, stressing that the government was working to improve supply to the domestic market.
Ekpo said: “You have seen the demonstration by the Federal Government by withdrawing all taxes and levies from importation of gas related equipment. It is a big incentive on the issue. of LPG.
“We are interacting with the critical stakeholders to ensure that there is no exportation of LPG. All LPG produced within the country will have to be domesticated and when this is done, the volume will increase and of course, the price will automatically crash. I’m in contact with the regulator, NMDPRA (Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority), we have meetings almost on a daily basis, and the producers of the gas like Mobil, Chevron and Shell. So there is that hope that things will turn around.”
Questioned on why the removal of taxes was not reflecting on lower prices he said: “It is not going to reflect that way. We are dealing with human beings. The policy has been put in place and the investors want to maximise the profits that they are going to get from it all. At the end of the day we have to come in. That is why you have the regulator and we are interfacing with them to make sure they crash the price.”
By Akinwale Kasali
Perturbed by the economic hardship bedevilling the nation and series of protests across the country over the current economic crisis, an Investigative Group, the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists, NGIJ, has called on President Bola Tinubu and his All Progressives Congress, APC, led-administration to swiftly address pressing issues relating to the economy and security of the country.
The Group raised concerns over the deplorable state of the economy in which the prices of commodities have increased astronomically.
A statement issued on Friday in Abuja, jointly signed by the President and National Secretary of The Guild, Ayoyemi Mojoyinola and Abdulrahman Aliagan respectively, called on the President Tinubu led Federal Government to take actions, by putting policies in place that will change the dynamics and fortunes of the nation in earnest.
The statement partly reads: “We believe that urgent action is needed in order to prevent further deterioration of these crucial aspects of Nigerian society to avoid street protest that may have negative effect on the nation at large”, NGIJ stated.
The Group further implored the Federal Government to immediately put an end to the dollarisation of the Nigerian economy.
“We note that the excessive reliance on foreign currency has had a detrimental effect on our nation’s economic stability and is hindering the growth and development of local businesses.
“It is vital that steps are taken to promote the use of the Nigerian Naira and protect its value.
“Secondly, we request that the government formulates a comprehensive policy to mitigate the impact of the Fuel Subsidy removal. This decision has burdened Nigerian citizens with high fuel prices and has resulted in increased living costs for many. It is imperative that measures are put in place to alleviate the financial strain on the Nigerian people.”
NGIJ expressed concern regarding the distribution of the N15,000 palliative.
“We firmly believe that this aid will be marred by corruption and will not reach those who are most in need. It is crucial that efficient and transparent mechanisms are established to ensure that relief funds reach the intended beneficiaries.
“Additionally, we urge the government to consider policies that are inclusive and benefit all Nigerians. It is imperative that measures are implemented which take into account a wide spectrum of the population, ensuring that they have access to essential services and a decent standard of living.” NGIJ maintained.
The Guild pointed out that the issue of insecurity in Nigeria has reached extreme levels, causing distress and fear among citizens.
“No place is safe, and urgent action must be taken to address this matter effectively.
“We call upon the government to prioritise the security of its people and implement strategies that can restore peace and stability throughout the nation.
“Finally, as a body of Journalists, we implore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to provide sustainable solutions that will guide Nigeria out of its current economic and security quagmire. It is crucial that decisive action is taken to steer the country back onto the right track, both economically and in terms of security.” It said.
It added that the Guild stands ready to support the Government in addressing these critical issues and will remain vigilant in ensuring that the interests of the Nigerian people are upheld.
“We, therefore, call on the President to consider our recommendations and take immediate action to propel Nigeria forward towards economic prosperity and security of lives and property in Nigeria.”, the statement concluded.
By Ayodele Oni
The Lawmaker representing Edo Central Senatorial District, Monday Okpebholo has been declared winner of Edo state All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship direct primary election.
Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, who was the Chairman of Edo APC shadow poll, made the declaration after collating results from the 18 Local Government Areas on Friday.
The collation and declaration were made at Lushville Hotel and Suites, Gapiona Avenue, Government Reservation Area (GRA), Benin.
Okpebholo polled 12,433 votes to defeat the representative of Ovia constituency in the House of Representatives, Dennis Idahosa, who scored 6,541 votes.
Idahosa, perceived favourite of former Governor Adams Oshiomole was earlier declared winner on Tuesday, by the Committee led by Imo state Governor, Hope Uzodinma.
Following protests and rejection which trailed outcome, Uzodinma, was removed as Chairman of the Edo State Gubernatorial Election Committee and replaced with Otu.
By Ayodele Oni
Officiating Ministers of God at the final burial service of the late former Governor of Ondo state, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu temporarily put aside the main programme to delve into the current hardship confronting Nigerians.
Anglican Bishop of Ikwerre, in Rivers state, Most Rev’d Dr Blessing Enyindah told President Bola Tinubu to act fast and address the increasing hardship facing Nigerians as time is no longer on his side.
Enyindah, who preached the sermon at the Funeral Service for the late Governor of Ondo State, at St Andrews Cathedral Church Imola, Owo, Ondo state declared that “May I, on behalf of Nigerians, pray and call on the President, Senator Bola Tinubu to do something to reduce the hardship being faced by Nigerians.
“We have the hope he would do it because he promised us renewed hope and according to him, it is his turn, so the turn and opportunity have been given to him now. We are waiting and expecting the fulfilment of the renewed hope.
“We plead with him to do it fast because time, that is four or eight years as the case may be, is brief and the time is running.”
The Funeral service for late former governor of Ondo state Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu at Saint Andrews Church Imola Owo is graced by hundreds of sympathisers from all walks of life that turned up at the cathedral.
The Vice President Kashim Shettima who represented the President led others, including Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, late Akeredolu’s wife, Mrs Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu and children, Ekiti state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, Edo state Governor, Goodwin Obaseki, former Governors of Ondo state, Dr Olusẹgun Mimiko, that of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, former Ekiti State Governor , Kayode Fayemi, APC National Chairman, Dr Ganduje, wife of late Prophet Temitope Joshua, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, Political appointees, and members bodies of benchers.
