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PDP BoT Picks Wabara As Chairman, Makarfi, Secretary, Urges Urgent Solution To Economic Crisis

By
Ayodele Oni
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By Ayodele Oni

In a bid to further strengthen the party the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has announced the appointment of  Dr Adolphus Wabara, a former President of the Senate, as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, (BoT). Senator Ahmed Makarfi, a former Governor of Kaduna State has been picked as the Secretary.

The appointments, which were announced on Tuesday in Abuja at the end of meeting of members of BoT, are in line with the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017).

The PDP Board of Trustees during the meeting, assessed the State of affairs in the nation, and expressed concern over the biting economic hardship, high cost of essential life-enhancing commodities, and alarming food scarcity in the country.

Members were of the view that these were occasioned by the ill-implemented policies of the APC administration which are already causing restiveness and agitations in various parts of the country.

In the communique, “The BoT is alarmed by the worsening insecurity in the country as evident in the rising cases of mass killings, banditry, kidnap for ransom, and acts of terrorism by assailants who are emboldened by the manifest laid back attitude of the APC administration to issues of security, especially in the last nine months.

“The BoT is appalled by the monumental corruption and unbridled treasury-looting in the APC administration especially the looting of billions of Naira meant for palliatives for poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

“The BoT is seriously worried over the fall of the Naira to an abysmal N1,500 to the Dollar, and the incessant increase in the pump price of fuel which now sells for over N700 per liter with long queues in various parts of the country.

“These have attendant negative consequences as evident in the nearly 30% inflation rate, 41% unemployment rate, and alarming 46% poverty rate where up to 130 million citizens have sunk deeper into multi-dimensional poverty in the last nine months.

“The BoT is disturbed that the catastrophic economic and security situation in the country has left Nigerians hopeless, despondent, and angry and constitutes a present and immediate threat to the survival of the country as hardworking young Nigerians, professionals in critical fields as well as major multinational companies are now leaving our nation in droves.

“The BoT is distressed that there are no concrete and coherent policies, measures, and steps by the APC administration to address these existential threats that have put the country in a precarious situation.

“The BoT calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to know that the situation in the country has become unbearable.

“Mr. President should immediately address the issues of corruption in his administration, worsening insecurity in the country, continuous fall in the value of the Naira, high fuel prices, unbearable food scarcity, and unemployment in the country.

“The BoT reassures the Nigerian public that despite the challenges, the PDP remains united, stronger, and more determined in its commitment to working for the well-being of Nigerians and defending their interest at all times.”

The BoT as the Conscience of the Party charged all Organs, leaders, critical stakeholders, and members of the PDP across the country to remain united and focused as the Party further repositions for the task ahead.

Uzodimma To Pay School Fees For 107 Imo-Born Law Graduates Of IMSU for 2023 Law School …Each Candidate Gets N500,000

By
The Source
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Governor Hope Uzodimma has taken the Imo State indigenes who graduated from the Imo State University (IMSU) and have been shortlisted for the 2023 Law School by surprise, offering to pay their school fees for the programme.

Each of the lucky Law School students from Imo State scheduled for the programme is to be credited with N500,000 by Governor Uzodimma with the bank accounts they have been directed to provide.

Surprisingly, the beneficiaries of the Governor’s IMSU 2023 Law School scholarship cuts across all the 27 Local Government Area of the State.

Governor Uzodimma is not new to philanthropy and has continued to lead a life of giving which he cultivated as a young man, and as an accomplished businessman, before joining politics.

Thousands of persons, within and outside Imo State, have benefitted from Governor Uzodimma’s scholarship and other charity orientated programmes that are borne out of his generosity of heart.

His belief in quality human capital development as key to unlocking the potential of every society, which is second to none, keeps encouraging him to invest in people.

Ondo LG Election Now Holds In July, As ODIEC Announces Postponement

By
Ayodele Oni
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Independent National Electoral Commission

By Ayodele Oni

Non compliance by political parties with guidelines, has led to the postponement of Local government election in Ondo state earlier scheduled to hold on Saturday.

Political watchers in the state expressed the view that the change on the leadership of the state, following the death of former governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, led to the shift in date.

The chairman of Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission, (ODIEC), Dr. Igbekele Aremo who announced a shift in the date of local government elections said it will now hold on Saturday 13th July, 2024.

Dr. Aremo disclosed this on Tuesday, while meeting with stakeholders and party leaders at the commissions head office in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

According to him, the shift in election date was primarily due to non compliance of political parties in meeting up with the election timetable.

Going through the rescheduled timetable, Aremo noted that the last day for submission of forms for particulars of candidates by political parties is now Tuesday 4th, June while political parties can commence campaign by 5th June, 2024.

“Collection and submission of nomination forms is to start by same 5th June to 7th June, 2024 just as verification of candidates will start from 11th June to 13th June, 2024.

“Publication of list of validated candidates is scheduled for 17th June, while the last day for campaign by political parties will be midnight of 11th July, 2024.

“Election for Chairmanship and councilorship  is now rescheduled and fix for Saturday 13th July, 2024.”

While assuring stakeholders that the commission, which is guided by enabling laws and guidelines is poised to conduct the election and ensure the votes of the people counts, Dr. Igbekele urged parties most especially to conduct themselves in manners as stipulated within the law.

He said ODIEC’s job is to provide a template that ensures free and fair election and that as an umpire, it cannot conduct election without the full participation of political parties.

Aremo also charged political parties to take seriously their role of voter education stressing also that the commission will conduct training for them in the course of the year.

In attendance at the meeting were stakeholders including representatives of security agencies as well as leaders of political parties.

Responding, the state Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC)Chairman, Mr. Olaoluwa Adesanya on behalf of all the political parties apologized for not living up to expectation.

He also assured that all registered and willing political parties interested in the election will begin to do the needful.

Insecurity: Ondo Govt To Procure More Vehicles, Equipments To Security Agencies

By
Ayodele Oni
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Amotekun

By Ayodele Oni

As part of moves to curtail insecurity, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has disclosed that his administration is in the process of procuring vehicles and gadgets for security agencies in the State to enhance safety of lives and properties.

This pledge is coming just as the Amotekun security corps confirmed influx of bandits from neighbouring Ekiti to the state.

Commander of Amotekun in the state, Adetunji Adeleye While briefing newsmen in Akure on Monday, disclosed that within a week of operation by Amotekun operatives in Ondo state 43 suspected criminals half of which is presumed to be kidnappers were nabbed.

The commander noted that “the astonishing thing about our parade today is the sudden upsurge in the suspects that we have on kidnapping. About half of the 43 are suspected kidnappers that we have reasonable reasons to question.

Governor Aiyedatiwa disclosed government plan in Akure, after meeting with the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Commissioner of Police, State Commander of Amotekun and other heads of security agencies in the State.

The Governor stressed the critical need to fortify the security architecture within the state, emphasizing a commitment to supporting security agencies with necessary tools and resources.

The purchase of the vehicles, he said, is part of the outlined plans to address the pressing issue of mobility, a significant challenge hindering effective policing.

“We will support our security agencies by providing tools for them, more importantly, more operational vehicles for them to be able to move around, enabling them to navigate diverse terrains and respond swiftly to security threats”, he said.

Additionally, the governor highlighted the distribution of vehicles to Permanent Secretaries in previous months, aimed at facilitating their movement and operational efficiency.

Beyond addressing security concerns, the governor reiterated his continued commitment to enhancing the welfare of citizens by implementing measures to mitigate the impact of economic challenges.

The provision of palliatives to alleviate the effects of fuel subsidy removal and the provision of shuttle buses to civil servants and students exemplify the government’s dedication to supporting the people.

President Tinubu Confers National Honours On Super Eagles, Gives Landed Property

By
Ayodele Oni
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President Bola Tinubu hots Super Eagles

By Ayodele Oni

For their zeal and commitment, President Bola Tinubu, has announced rewards for the Super Eagles of Nigeria for placing second in the just concluded African Nations Cup competition, (AFCON).

The team members were on Tuesday conferred with National Honours of Member of the Order of the Niger, (MON), flats in the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), and a plot of land each.

President Tinubu made the pronouncement when he received the players and officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The delegation was led by the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh.

The Super Eagles finished as runners-up in the just concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), hosted by Côte d’Ivoire.

All the team members, clad in green attire, and officials were in attendance, including Alex Iwobi, who had faced cyber attacks following Nigeria’s loss to Cote d’Ivoire at the final of the just concluded African Cup of Nations.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu commended the team, the coach, the crew, and the entire management team for their hard work, assiduity, and sacrifice to come this far in the tournament.

He acknowledged the hurdles they consistently surpassed with steadily improving performance as they pulled through to the finals.

The President had urged Nigerians to be of good cheer, emphazising that we won a great victory in the hearts of Africa and the world with our grit, rigour, and determination in the field of play.

“Let this passing event not dispirit us but bring us together to work harder. We are a great nation bound as one by the green-white-green banner of resilience, joy, hope, duty, and untiring love.

“To those cherished Nigerian youths expressing their gifts in communities, drawing lines in the sand as they play football in their humble rectangles of play, you can be our heroes tomorrow, do not relent in your pursuit. My administration is here to make dreams come true.”

Alex Iwobi Retires From Nigeria’s National Team  After Cyberbullying, Absent At Presidential Reception

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Alex Iwobi

By Akinwale Kasali

Super Eagles and Fulham Football Club of England midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has been forced to retire from the National Team following threats and cyberbullying he received from Nigerian Football Fans, enthusiasts and netizens.

Iwobi had come under strong criticism from a section of Nigerians following his abysmal performance at the just concluded African Cup of Nations championship in Côte d’Ivoire.

The former Arsenal Football Club player was singled out for criticism and cyberbullying out of the 25 Players that hoisted the nation’s flag at the Continental showpiece, where the Super Eagles won Silver after losing in the final to hosts, Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire.

The cyberbullying  transcended geographical boundaries, originating from various online platforms and social media networks.

Iwobi, a key player for the Super Eagles, is the central figure in this distressing narrative, as he grapples with the decision to potentially retire from international football.

The decision to contemplate retirement is rooted in the relentless cyberbullying Iwobi has endured, impacting his mental well-being and overall experience as a representative of Nigeria on the global stage.

Following this development, the Minister of Sport Development, John Enoh, had strongly condemned the cyberbullying of Alex Iwobi after Super Eagles Of Nigeria lost to Ivory Coast at AFCON Final on Sunday.

Reacting to the sad development, The Minister took to his X handle to plead with Nigerians to stop the attack on the midfielder.

“I condemn strongly the cyber bullying of Alex Iwobi or any other sports man or woman.

“They give a lot if not all of themselves when representing our Nation, the least we can do is rally support for them, be kind and gracious with words and actions towards them.

“Dear Alex Iwobi be strong.

“You were part of a team that brought home a silver medal from AFCON 2023. The last time we won a silver was twenty three years ago at AFCON 2000.

“Cyber bullies do not determine what the leadership of the country, the rest of Nigerians including myself, think of you. You did your best, gave over fourth days for the love of the nation.

“We applaud you. We are proud of you, keep soaring.”

It would be recalled that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has asked Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) to clamp down on persons spreading fake news to jeopardise national security.

The Police Chief directed that persons found spreading false information or engaging in cyberbullying should be prosecuted.

In a statement on Monday, Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, said certain individuals have started sharing old contents on various social media platforms to “undermine public trust in the policing system”.

Adejobi said the force condemned “dissemination of fake news and the perpetuation of cyberbullying aimed at discrediting the diligent efforts of our officers”.

The Force Spokesperson said fake news and cyberbullying are against the provisions of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act, 2015.

He added that fake news and cyberbullying do not only “pose a threat to the force but also have the potential to incite fear and discord within the country”.

Stay Away From Abia State, NDLEA Warns Drug Barons

By
The Source
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0

By Daniel Maduka

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA ,Abia State Command, has warned drug barons and all those engaged in illicit drugs trafficking to steer clear of the state ,noting that it is unrelenting in battling drug abuse ,as well as ensuring that drug dealers are deprived of their criminal proceeds

The Abia State NDLEA Commander Adelanwa Amos Adetunji, in a statement issued and made available to the media on Tuesday February 13 2024 by the Command’s Spokesperson Ik Akunne in Aba, said the drug enforcement agency has instituted some proactive measures directed at effectively disrupting the operations of illicit drugs cartels  in all parts of  the state.

According to  the  NDLEA, ensuring the disruption of drug trafficking networks and interception of narcotics substances before they circulate ,have proven to be effective in the war against drug abuse.

” These measures have resulted in numerous arrests and seizures of all kinds of illicit substances amounting to 72.3943 kg in the last few months.

“Several notorious drug kingpins have also been arrested and are being prosecuted ” the statement noted.

To further isolate drug barons, and discourage drug abuse among the populace ,particularly the youths, the NDLEA Abia Command said priority is being accorded to  enlightenment programmes, to raise awareness on the dangers of hard substance abuse in the society.

“We have taken the War Against Drug Abuse WADA to the next level.- which is to ensure that all and sundry are abreast with the negative consequences of substance abuse.

This WADA campaign under the present leadership of the Abia State NDLEA Command has been conveyed to places such as Ukwa East/ Ukwa West , Umuahia the state capital, Tertiary education institutions ,Colleges  Markets ,and various motor parks.

“Instructively, our audiences ,were ecstatic about the messages and requested to be periodically updated on drug abuse and other related issues.” Adentunji remarked

The Abia NDLEA Command ,noted with joy that several rehabilited persons are now set for re integration into the society for normal life  ,with others  still under going treatment and rehabilitation process at various NDLEA rehabilitation Centres.

Teachers Urge FG To Declare Security Emergency, Protect Schools

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Audu Amba, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on security in the country.

The NUT president made this call in Abuja, the nation’s capital during the Union’s 6th Annual Solemn Assembly.

He said the insecurity situation in the country should no longer be treated with levity, stressing that all should be done by the federal government to ensure that the “stumbling blocks that are bedeviling the security architecture of the country” are removed.

According to Amba, everything hovers around security, that the country cannot move forward if Nigerians don’t feel safe wherever they are living and doing business.

The NUT called on the authorities to ensure that security is put in place to protect schools and educational institutions across the country, adding all hands must be on deck to ensure that this is achieved.

Amba said: “Government at all levels should do the needful since security is everybody’s business.

“Nothing can be achieved with insecurity in the country. So, it is imperative to move all stumbling blocks that are bedeviling the security architecture of the country.

“It is our hope that Federal, State, Local Government and all stakeholders in education should join hands to protect our schools and the education workers in Nigeria.”

Access Holdings Appoints Agbede Acting GMD

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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0

Following the death of Dr Herbert Wigwe, Access Holdings Plc has appointed Bolaji Agbede as the Acting Group Chief Executive Officer.

The board of the bank said in a statement on Sunday that a new GMD would be appointed soon.

The announcement of Agbede as the acting Chief executive of Access Corporation was contained in a notice In a notification to the Nigerian Exchange, NGX, on Monday.

Agbede, according to the notification was the most senior Executive directors as at the time of Wigwe’s death.

Her appointment, the management of the corporation said was subject to the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and other regulatory authorities.

The statement to the NGX said: “Further to its announcement dated February 11, 2024, the Board of Directors of Access Holdings Plc (‘the Company’) has today announced the appointment of Ms Bolaji Agbede as the Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of the Company following the unfortunate demise of its former Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Herbert Wigwe, on February 9, 2024.

“The appointment is subject to the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria.”

The magazine reports that Wigwe died in a helicopter crash in far away United States of America, USA, last week end.

Those that died alongside the demised Access Boss in the ill-fated crash included his wife and son.

Agbede joined Access Bank in 2003 as an Assistant General, risng through the ranks to become an Executive Director.

Her career trajectory spanned banking and business consultancy with a rich blend of expertise and strategic acumen, the statement said.

Hardship: Work With Us To End Hunger, Insecurity PDP Govs Tell Tinubu

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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0

Governors under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has urged the federal government to tackle the current economic problems facing the country to avoid the “Venezuela’ experience.

The opposition governors made this clarion call in Ibadan, Oyo state during a meeting, warning that the situation in the country has become unbearable for Nigerians.

Governors who attended the meeting include Mohammed , Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Makinde of Oyo State , Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri , Caleb Mutfwang, Dauda Lawal), Kefas Agbu , Godwin Obaseki

Other PPD governors sent their deputies.

For instance, the governors cited the declining value of the Naira, insecurity and the high cost of essential commodities as pointers to the fact that it’s not well with the country at the moment.

Something quick must be done immediately to prevent the country from going the path of Venezuela, the governors said in a communique they released after the meeting, noting that states must be taken along in the quest to lift the country out of the doldrums.

The communique was red by Bala Mohammed, Bauch state governor and chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, PGF.

The communique “noted the hardship being faced by Nigerians as a result of the economic and security challenges facing the nation.”

“The forum consequently urges the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency embark on initiatives involving all the sub national governments to bring a lasting solution to the crises.

“The PDP Governors will continue to play their part in the effort to bring security and succour to our people. To this end, we reiterate our call for state police with appropriate safeguards to avoid any abuse or overreach by any tier of government.

“The forum decried the falling value of the naira and requested the monetary and fiscal authorities to find appropriate solutions. The meeting further reviewed recent developments in the Peoples Democratic Party and  committed to leading efforts to revamp and reposition the party to serve as an effective opposition to the ruling Party in Nigeria.

.“The majority of Nigerians voted for this administration, so we are doing so much across party lines and on bi-partisan basis, within the Nigeria governors forum within the National Economic Council to make sure that we cushion the effects of some of these policies. We have reached out to our people and opened the food reserves in a manner that it will provide some succour to our people at the lower level,” the PDP governors said.

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