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Gov Oyebanji Restates Readiness Of Ekiti To Partner FG In Solid Mineral

By
Ayodele Oni
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By Ayodele Oni

Minister of Solid Minerals Development,  Dele Alake has expressed the hope that Ekiti state will contribute significantly to the Federal Government’s quest to make solid minerals, a major revenue earner for the nation.

Speaking while playing host to Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji in his office, the Minister reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to partnering with states to reform the mining sector with a view to ensuring maximum benefits for host communities and accruable revenue for government

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for appointing an illustrious son of Ekiti as the helmsman of the solid minerals ministry, asserting the Minister is the State’s best choice that has been using his vantage position to advance the cause of Ekiti State.

The Governor emphasized the imperative of collaborating with the federal government on mining sector reforms for economic development of the federating units.

“The other reason why I came is to discuss how Ekiti can partner with the Minister to ensure that we key into his vision. It is in the interest of states to collaborate because it is a win-win situation.

“Any discerning state that want to develop their domain must key into the mining sector. I see a lot of opportunities for sub-nationals.

“He is trying to democratize the space, and it will create wealth. It will create jobs, and it will increase security. So, I don’t see how any state will not partner with the ministry because solid minerals is the new oil.”

Uzodimma Compensates Security Officers Attacked By Gunmen In Ehime Mbano, Doles out N185m to Families Of The Killed, Survivors

By
The Source
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Governor Hope Uzodimma has compensated the security agents who were killed and/or survived in an ambush by gunmen at Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State in the course of carrying out their duties.

He doled out N185m to the families of the deceased as well as to those who survived the attacks.

Performing the ceremony on Monday at the premises of the Government House Chapel, Owerri, Governor Uzodimma appreciated the fallen heroes and those of them who sustained various degrees of injuries in the course of the attack, working as operatives of ‘’Search and Flush Operations.’’

Addressing the audience in an emotion laden voice, the Governor who remembered how the security agents put their lives on line to protect the citizens of the State not only prayed God to grant their various families the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss but also to grant the survivors quick recovery from the injuries they are currently nursing.

The Governor noted that the occasion has brought to the fore the situation of insecurity in Imo State “as being beyond what people think and goes a long way to showcase the problems and the negative impact inflicted on the State.”

The Governor recalled that this is not the first time the State Government was appreciating those who died or were injured while carrying out their assigned duties and promised to continue to show love to the families and agencies affected so that they will continue to discharge their duties without fear or discouragement.

He said though he is aware that the Federal Government and the Security Agencies have different compensation plans for their personnel, “yet this is an opportunity to appreciate the invaluable jobs the security agencies, that is, Police, Army, Air Force, Navy, NDELA, Civil Defence and other Para-Military Agencies are doing in Imo State.”

Governor Uzodimma proceeded to announce that the Government will give out N185 million to those affected and prayed God to give the families the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss, “and the repose of the souls of those that paid the supreme price to their fatherland.”

Earlier while leading the audience into the reason for the event, the Secretary to Imo State Government, Chief Cosmas Iwu welcomed the bereaved families to the solemn event and thanked Governor Uzodimma for “being responsive to the plight of the security agencies in the State.”

He also appreciated the Government for coming to the aids of the families of the deceased and for assisting those who were wounded in the course of performing their duties.

Iwu said that “the attacks and killings of security agencies will not deter them from fighting against insecurity and restoring peace in the State,” and assured that “Government will continue to support the families and the various security outfits in the State.”

Those who died and were compensated include; Isaac Yakubu and Mr. Samson Edeh of NDELA; Ezeagu Emeka Tobias of NSCDC; Abraham Anas of Nigerian Air Force and Abas Ejiofor of the Nigerian Police.

The injured officers include; Ibrahim Abubakar, Umeh Lawrence, Akwaraji Charles, Abubakar Haruna, Inspector Odukwe, Onyekachi Ndubuisi and others.

In a vote of thanks on behalf of the others, a survivor, Umeh Lawrence of the Nigerian Immigration Service, thanked the Governor, the Government and people of Imo State for the compensation and the various support for the security agencies, families and well-wishers.

He promised that they will not relent in their assigned responsibilities, but rather will continue to discharge their duties gallantly.

Present at the programme were the Deputy Governor, Prof. Placid Njoku, Deputy Governor-elect, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe  and other members of Imo House of Assembly, members of Imo State Expanded Executive Council, Eze Imo, HRM Eze (Dr.) Emmanuel Okeke and Principal Officers of the Security Agencies and Para-Military Agencies in Imo State, the religious ( Christians and Muslims), among others.

Gov Alia Assures Benue People Of Democratic Dividends

By
Ayodele Oni
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By Ayodele Oni

Still savouring the joy of his victory, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia has pledged to recover the lost glory of the state from the past years of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) maladministration.

Governor Alia promised to create a conducive environment in the state for the provision of democratic dividends to the people.

He disclosed this in Makurdi, while addressing a stakeholders meeting of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), in the state.

Governor Alia expressed appreciation to Benue people for their generosity in electing him and his Deputy, Sam Ode to pilot affairs of the state, promising that his administration would recover all that the state lost in the past eight years.

He informed the stakeholders that in pursuance of that, his administration, despite challenges, commenced renovation work on the almost abandoned dilapidated House of Assembly complex which is nearing completion.

Governor Ália implored Benue people to volunteer to serve as the first line of security by acknowledging as a matter of priority, their neighbours and reporting strange faces around their neighbourhood to appropriate authorities for necessary action for peace to reign.

He also told the stakeholders that his administration in conjunction with the people intends to select credible people including youths and women to constitute caretaker committees at the third tier of government, assuring that zoning will be strictly adhered to.

Presidency Reacts To Court Of Appeal Ruling On Plateau Governorship, Says History Repeating Itself

By
Ayodele Oni
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Caleb Mutfwang - Plateau state Governor

By Ayodele Oni

The Presidency has clarified that history is repeating itself on the ruling of the Court of Appeal which sacked the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang.

The Court of Appeal, had set aside the judgement of the governorship election tribunal that upheld the election of Mutfwang as governor of the state.

The Court, sitting in Abuja in a ruling on Sunday removed Mutfwang and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw Certificate of Return presented to him.

The court declared Nentawe Yilwatda of the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of the governorship election while ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue a fresh certificate of return to him.

The Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), should be blamed for the sack of its governor.

According to the Presidency, President Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are not responsible for the court ruling.

The Presidency in a statement titled: “The avoidable fate of Caleb Mutfwang,” wrote: “To those crying and complaining about the judgment of the Appeal Court in nullifying the Election of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, they seem to have forgotten history so quickly.

“In 2019, all Zamfara elected officials and members of the APC, from governor to state and National Assembly lawmakers lost their posts because the APC failed to carry out legally valid primaries.

“The PDP, failing to learn from history, repeated the same illegality, using an illegal caretaker committee to conduct primaries, despite a court order.

“Blame the PDP for the electoral setback, not the APC, the judiciary, INEC and President Tinubu.

“Non-compliance with the electoral law and the constitution is also at the root of the nullification of the election of Kano governor, Abba Yusuf.

“Those blaming the judiciary and being emotional about the ruling should face reality. Yusuf was sacked based on the law. I believe we all want our country to be guided by the rule of law.”

Court Of Appeal Affirms Governor Alia’s Victory As Benue State Governor

By
Akinwale Kasali
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By Akinwale Kasali

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia on Monday, escaped the fate which befell his Zamfara, Kano and Plateau States counterparts in the hands of the Court of Appeal. The three were sacked from office by the Court.

But Alia’s victory in the March 18th, 2023, Governorship Election has been affirmed by the Court of Appeal.

The Court upheld the verdict of the Benue State Governorship Election Petition Court which  earlier affirmed the victory of the suspended Roman Catholic Priest. Alia was suspended from carrying out Priestly duties by the Church for daring to dabble into politics.

Following the verdict of the Lower Court, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Candidate, Titus Uba, had approached the Appeal Court to set aside the judgment of the tribunal which upheld Alia’s election.

At the tribunal, Uba, among other things, alleged that Alia’s Deputy, Samuel Ode, presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission contrary to Section 182(1)(j) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

He also claimed that Alia’s name was submitted less than 180 days before the election date, and Ode was also not submitted to INEC after the party conducted a further re-run primary election.

A three-member panel of the tribunal, headed by Justice Ibrahim Karaye, dismissed the petition on the ground that it was a pre-election matter and was statute-barred.

Ruling on the appeal on Monday, the Appeal Court ’s three-member panel led by Justice Onyekachi Aja Otisi held that Uba failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt the allegations of forgery against Ode.

Obasanjo: Western Democratic Style Of Leadership Not Working For Nigeria, Other African Countries

By
Akinwale Kasali
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By Akinwale Kasali

Former President Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo has lamented the effect of Western Style Democracy on Nigeria’s fledgling democracy.

The former President said the style has, over the years, been unsuitable for Africa and seems not to be working for Nigeria and other African countries.

Obasanjo  spoke on Monday, at the high-level consultation on Rethinking Western Liberal Democracy in Africa held at the Green Resort Legacy, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta.

He was of the view that  Western democracy as it is being practiced in Nigeria and other African countries, should be re-examined or moderated.

He stated that it is because it has not delivered on good governance and progressive development for the Continent.

Obasanjo said that the time has come to be brutal with the truth and face the reality that Western democracy is not delivering on expectations and should, therefore, be tinkered with in such a way that it will be able to take care of our peculiarities as Africans.

The former President said that the snag with liberal democracy lies in the fact that it wasn’t homegrown and never took into account African history and multicultural complexities, among other peculiarities.

He further explained that the Western style of democracy failed in Africa because it did not take into account the views of the majority of the people.

He described Western Liberal Democracy as a “government of a few people over all the people or population, and these few people are representatives of only some of the people and not full representatives of all the people. Invariably, the majority of the people are wittingly or unwittingly kept out.”

He advocated for what he termed “Afro democracy” in place of Western liberal democracy.

According to him, African countries have no business operating a system of government in which they have no hands in its “definition and design.

He said, “ The weakness and failure of liberal democracy as it is practised stem from its history, content, context, and practice.

“Once you move from all the people to representatives of the people, you start to encounter troubles and problems. For those who define it as the rule of the majority, should the minority be ignored, neglected, and excluded?

“In short, we have a system of government in which we have no hands to define and design, and we continue with it even when we know that it is not working for us.

“Those who brought it to us are now questioning the rightness of their invention, its deliverability, and its relevance today without reform.

“ The essence of any system of government is the welfare and well-being of the people—all the people.

“Here, we must interrogate the performance of democracy in the West when it originated from and with us, the inheritors of what we are left with by our colonial powers.

“We are here to stop being foolish and stupid. Can we look inward and outward to see what in our country, culture, tradition, practice, and living over the years that we can learn from, adopt, and adapt with practices everywhere for a changed system of government that will service our purpose better and deliver?

“We have to think outside the box and then act with our new thinking. You are invited here to examine clinically the practice of liberal democracy, identify its shortcomings for our society, and bring forth ideas and recommendations that can serve our purpose better, knowing human beings for what we are and going by our experiences and the experiences of others.

“We are here to think as leaders of thought in academia and leaders of thought with some experience in politics.”

Uzodinma: “I Will Hand Over To Owerri Zone In  2027, Tasks It On Unity

By
The Source
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The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma has restated his commitment to ensure that his successor in 2027 comes from Owerri zone, challenging the leaders to eschew rancour and forge a common front that shows their preparedness to provide leadership.

Governor Uzodimma spoke at the weekend when the leadership of Owerri zone in the All Progressives Congress (APC) paid him a congratulatory visit at the Government House. They were led by the Imo State APC Chairman, Dr. Macdonald Ebere.

The Governor who expressed gratitude to them for the visit, restated his commitment that the next Governor will come from Owerri zone and enjoined them not to disappoint Imo people by quarrelling about it.

Rather, he said, “you have to be united and if possible come up with a consensus candidate.”

Governor Uzodimma acknowledged that the zone has given him maximum cooperation and support, noting that, “and any good man must reciprocate every good gesture.”

However, the Governor reminded the leaders that a lot of differences still exist among them and therefore challenged them to take steps to reconcile their differences and unite as brothers and sisters.

“No man or woman will do it alone, because what the State needs most is peace, stability, prosperity, fight against poverty and security.”

The Governor regretted that insecurity has done a lot of harm to the economy of the State and canvassed the need for all to come together to put our house in order.

“Now that everyone is together, let no one work against the agreement to achieve the Imo Charter of Equity.”

The Governor said his administration will continue to work hard for the people of Imo State, noting that “the government will not be a lame duck because of the existence of the Charter of Equity.”

Though he reminded them that the implementation of the Charter of Equity will bring a contest for Owerri people, he however assured that since they know one another it is believed that they know “those who will work for the people and those who will work for their selfish interest.”

He thanked them for coming, promising the leaders that having worked well with him, he will surely work with them, and enjoined them to continue to move along in unity and allow peace to reign.

Earlier,  Dr Ebere said they had come to congratulate the Governor on his overwhelming victory at the just concluded Governorship election in the State.

He said that “the zone saw, fought and conquered,” and that the zone dedicates all to the Governor’s hard work and victory to the glory of God.

Chief Henry Njoku, who read a short address said the victory shows the love of Ndi Imo for the Governor and his general acceptability by the people.

Chief Njoku said that the victory is an affirmation of hard work and sterling qualities and confidence on the Governor.

He thanked the Governor for the choice of the female Deputy Governor from the zone and commended him for his commitment to the Charter of Equity that guarantees Owerri zone the next Governor after his tenure.

Speakers for the four Federal Constituencies – Ahiazu/Ezinihitte,  Aboh Mbaise/ Ngor Okpala, Mbaitoli/Ikeduru and Owerri Municipal, Owerri North, Owerri West – all congratulated the Governor and expressed assurance that he will surpass his first term achievements in the second tenure.

They sincerely thanked the Governor for promising to use Owerri zone to start the implementation of the Charter of Equity.

A former Deputy Governor of Imo State and Executive Chairman Imo State Universal Basic Education Board (IMSUBEB), Lady Ada Okwuonu specially thanked the Governor for recognizing the female gender in his administration, and for camping it up by choosing a female Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru.

Describing the Governor as “Gender Friendly Governor,” she used the opportunity to advise the Deputy Governor-elect to be “humble, loyal and dedicated” to her boss and duties as she was in her days.

Other leaders who spoke include – Chief Lemmy Akakem, Hon Ernest Ibejiako, Chief Alex Mbata, Chief Marcellus Nlemigbo, Okenze Obinna and former Federal Law maker, Hon Sir Livy Oguike.

Obi To Jonathan: “They are Killing Your Sacrifice On Democracy In Nigeria, Salutes Him At 66

By
The Source
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Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25 2023 election, Peter Obi has congratulated former President Goodluck Jonathan on his 66th birthday anniversary thanking him for his huge sacrifice for democracy in Nigeria and Africa.

Obi, however, noted regrettably that some hawks were making spirited efforts to undermine democracy in the country.

The LP standard bearer told Jonathan in a series of tweets on his X handle, how nostalgic Nigerians were at the outcome of the free, fair, and transparent election in our West African neighbor Liberia monitored by him Jonathan where the opposition candidate defeated an incumbent after a run-off.

“May I on behalf of my family heartily congratulate Your Excellency, Dr Goodluck Jonathan as you mark your 66th birthday anniversary today.

“I thank God for what he has used you to do for our country, Africa, and global democracies as President and former President who continues to be a good vehicle for free, fair, transparent, and violent free elections.

“Your recent mission for democracy in our West African Neighbour, Liberia where a transparent election was held leading to a run-off that produced an opposition as the winner, made many Nigerians nostalgic about your huge sacrifice for democracy in our country in 2015.

“God will continue to bless you for that rare patriotism that elevated our beloved country in global democracies worldwide, notwithstanding spirited efforts to undermine it.

“That singular act of yours accompanied by the landmark quote “ My political ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian,” says it all about your commitment to democracy where the will of the people prevails.

Obi finally prayed for the former President saying

“As you celebrate this unique day in your life, it’s my prayer that God almighty will bless and keep you in good health of mind and body for many more positive things for our country and humanity.”

Happy Birthday Your Excellency.

Signed.
Michael Jude Nwolisa.
Media PA

Liberia: Emulate Weah, History Will Be Kind To Him, Timi Frank Tells Nigerian Leaders

By
James Orji
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Timi Frank, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, says posterity will be kind to President George Weah of Liberia for accepting defeat in the recent presidential election.
The Liberian President was defeated in the contested election by rival Dr Joseph Boakai, a veteran politician.
Weah had since accepted defeat in contrast to what normally happens in Africa where leaders don’t easily accept defeat.
The Liberian leader in throwing in the towel said his country ‘won’ even though he lost his bid to retain presidency for a second term.
Reacting, Frank hailed Weah for accepting defeat urging Nigeria leaders to take a cue from the Liberian outgoing leader.
He condemned Nigerian leaders for always trying to grab power by force, saying Liberia has taught Nigeria how to do the right thing.
He also called for Electoral reform in Nigeria, calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, security agencies and other government organisations charged with the conduct of election in the country to be overhauled in other to achieve free, fair and credible elections.
Frank said in a statement on Sunday: “We therefore like to congratulate President-Elect Dr. Joseph Boakai and urge him to use his victory at the Polls to unite the good people of Liberia.
“He must make deliberate efforts to deliver on his campaign promises to the people of Liberia and forgive those who may have worked against him all in a bid to build a more stronger, united and prosperous Liberia for the benefit of all citizens.
“We want him to be reminded that this victory is not for him alone, but for all Africans. This has also shown that if African leaders decide to do the right thing, it can be achieved.
“We would also like to commend President George Opong Weah for his magnanimity in conceding defeat and allowing for a free, fair and credible elections as an incumbent, and to applaud him as he joins the league of distinguished leaders in Africa who have also written their names in gold, such as former President John Mahama of Ghana, former President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria who all conceeded defeat as incumbent Presidents.
“Indeed history will remember you all for the love and courage displayed in the place of compromise for the betterment of your nations.”
According to him, “The recent election in the Republic of Liberia has put to rest the argument of Nigeria being the giant of Africa as all parameters to prove its superiority have gradually diminished to a near zero level.
“The current administration in Nigeria headed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has no moral justification to congratulate President George Weah of Liberia on his acceptance of defeat in the just concluded election as it is an aberration, coming from one who would do anything to grab power, including compromising and corrupting state institutions at any cost whatsoever.
“The Nigerian President ought to hide his head in shame, as he’s not fit to applaud a process he vehemently detests as witnessed in the February 2023 Presidential Poll which usherd in his administration fraught with manipulations and fraud.
“It is on record that no opposition Presidential candidate in the February 2023 Poll has called to congratulate President Tinubu, because of the severity of connivance with state institutions in manipulating the process, which was too glaring to go unnoticed.
“In Nigeria, the opposition candidates do not only contest against the incumbent party, but against INEC, the security agencies and the Judiciary which are supposed to be neutral to all parties and citizens at all times.
“The security agencies, the Judiciary and the Electoral Commission, who are supposed to be neutral, end up being compromised by the ruling party and these dubious politicians and that’s why no opposition candidate congratulated anyone after the polls.
“The effect of this wicked compromise is gradually tilting Nigeria into a one party state as envisioned by these unpatriotic politicians.”

Polaris Bank Fashion Souk: Over 140 SMEs Set For Exhibition

By
James Orji
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0
Nigeria’s Leading Digital Retail Bank, Polaris Bank in partnership with Eventful Limited is set to host the 2023 season end edition of The Fashion Souk 9.0.
The two-day popular event will take place at the Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos on  December 2 and 3, the organisers said in a statement.
The Fashion Souk is Nigeria’s premier marketplace where smart Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, SMEs, in the fashion industry gather to display and market their diverse goods and services to a large audience.
With its extensive collection of fashion-related SMEs, The Fashion Souk stands as the largest congregation of such businesses in Nigeria to date. The event will primarily focus on four thriving industries: manufacturers, leather, retailers, and jewelry & accessories.
Over 140 established SMEs in Nigeria’s fashion industry, leather, and jewelry/accessories sectors, spanning across manufacturers, retailers, and dealers, will participate in The Fashion Souk 9.0. This incredible platform provides these businesses with an unparalleled opportunity to exhibit their creativity, product lines, and unique offerings to a discerning audience.
The Fashion Souk promises to be a memorable event that showcases the rich diversity, talent, and innovation within Nigeria’s fashion industry where attendees and shoppers can expect an immersive experience, with an array of unique products, inspiring fashion shows, and networking opportunities with industry experts.
In line with its SME focus and commitment, Polaris Bank has partnered and supported businesses in critical sectors of the Nigerian economy including; health, education, manufacturing, agriculture, export, and others. The Bank has advanced credits to these sectors for acquisition of medical equipment, machines, distribution, and logistics of medical products; laboratory equipment, stationaries, furniture, classrooms, school bus; working capital for businesses, expansion, etc.
BusinessDay in a November 2022 article valued Sub-Saharan fashion market at $31billion, with Nigeria accounting for 15 percent to the total regional market; while Statista put the value of the global fashion industry in 2022 at $1.53trillion, with revenue forecast to increase in 2023, to more than $1.7trillion.
Polaris Bank was adjudged Nigeria’s Digital Bank of the Year in 2023, 2022 and 2021 in Business Day’s Banks and Other Financial Institutions, BAFI, Awards. It also emerged as the Nigeria’s Best MSME Bank of the Year because of its ability to use technology to enable bottom-up support to the MSME sector.
As a digital-forward Bank, Polaris Bank is dedicated to forging a customer-focused future through innovative partnerships that reshape both businesses and communities.
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