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North East Governors Accuse Traditional Rulers Of Aiding Banditry, Threaten Sanction

September 10, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

The North-East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) has raised alarm that a new dimension of growing banditry has been added to worsen the security situation in the region.

The new dimension, according to the Governors is a situation where some Traditional Rulers and other local authorities are conniving with bandits to promote insecurity in the region.

The NEGF, comprising the Governors of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Gombe, and Taraba states, alleged that some Traditional Rulers provide shelter for bandits to commit various crimes.

The Forum, which ended its meeting in Maiduguri, Borno state, at the weekend, stated this in a communique.

The communique signed by its chairman and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, lauded the Military for the success recorded against insurgency, but even with that, bandits from the other parts of the country are now moving towards the North-East.

The Forum, while calling for the Federal Government’s intervention against insecurity in the North-East, said the case is becoming worse in Bauchi, Gombe, and Taraba states.

“The Forum is aware that some traditional rulers and other local authorities are conniving with the bandits, giving them shelter and cover to commit crimes within the subregion.

“The Forum unanimously resolved to decisively deal with any traditional ruler or community leader that is found to be harbouring or conniving with the bandits.

“The proliferation of mining in the region is becoming a problem. This includes both legal and illegal mining. It noted the link between mining activities and insecurity, especially the abuse of the mining leases.

“The Forum calls on the respective Governments to enforce compliance with the provisions of local consent as contained in Nigeria’s Mining Policy.

“The Forum reiterated its call for strict compliance with the provisions of the Land Use Act. Forum noted with great concern that Climate Change and environmental degradation is a major issue affecting the subregion.

“The issue of flooding that had affected the States leading to destruction of properties and loss of livelihoods is increasing the sufferings of the people.

“This has been compounded by the silting of our rivers as well as deforestation brought about by the massive charcoal business. There is the need for the Federal Government’s intervention in the area of desilting the rivers.

“Furthermore, there is the need for effective control on deforestation with stern regulation to local authorities against compromise to granting approvals for such business.

“The Forum has resolved to key into the Global Initiative of Carbon Credi, the Great Green wall and other initiatives that will mitigate the devasting impact of climate change in the subregion.”

The Governors further condemned the alleged neglect of road and railway infrastructure, especially along the roads that link the North-East region to other parts of the country, saying the roads from Enugu to Maiduguri are in a deplorable state.

“Equally worse is the railway from Enugu up to Maiduguri which has been destroyed. The Forum is calling on the Federal Government to look into the situation and consider the reconstruction of these basic infrastructures along Enugu-Maiduguri Economic Corridor.

“This is a major route for regional trade and very important for integration, peace building, and improving national unity.”

The Forum, however, urged the Northeast Development Commission (NEDC) to be more proactive with the issues of development in the region, saying its intervention should be well prioritized in short, medium, and long term to take care of the sustainable development needs of the people in the North-East.

On Saturday, September 9, 2023, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, suspended a Traditional Ruler, indefinitely, for, allegedly, ceding his authority in the Community to Cultists to wreak havoc including murders and kidnapping.

Adesanya Loses UFC Middleweight Title To Strickland

Akinwale Kasali

September 10, 2023

By Akinwale Kasali

Nigeria’s UFC Middleweight Champion, Israel Adesanya, failed in his defence of his title against Sean ‘Tarzan’ Strickland by points in their UFC fight early Sunday morning.

Strickland now has a record of (28-5-0) and has become the new undisputed UFC middleweight champion of the world after defeating Adesanya who has a record of (24-3-0) via unanimous decision in the main event of UFC 287.

Strickland, 32, stuck to a solid gameplan throughout the entire fight and it was good enough for all three judges to score the contest 49-46 in his favor. The American fighter was ecstatic in the final seconds of the bout, but remained calm, cool and collected for most of the five rounds.

This is one of the greatest upsets in the history of MMA.

There could, however, be a rematch between the duo, as Adesanya would be gunning to reclaim his title.

Murder Of DPO: Arase, PSC Chairman, Spits Fire, Says Act Will Not Demoralise Police’s Fighting Spirit

The Source

September 10, 2023

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, retired Inspector General of Police Dr. Solomon Arase, has condemned the dastardly and wicked murder and beheading of the Divisional Police Officer, DPO of Ahoada in Rivers State, SP Bako Angbashim, who was ambushed with his men while trying to contain the bloody attack by a deadly gang of cultists in the Odumude area of Ahoada East.

Dr. Arase also commiserated with the Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, Polycarp Emeka Nwonyi and the family of the slain senior Police Officer on this unfortunate development, especially, now that the Nation was gradually winning the war against criminals and criminality across the country.

In a statement signed by Ikechukwu Ani, Head, PSC Information Unit, on his behalf, Arase noted that the murder of the gallant officer who fought till the end to save Odumude community will not in any way extinguish the indomitable fighting spirit of our Police Officers in the war against social disorders. He promised that the Commission will do everything within its constitutional powers to support and encourage the Police to ensure that the criminals are apprehended and brought to justice. “We will stand with the Police to also ensure that there is no repeat of this barbaric act and will also encourage a proactive intelligence gathering and sharing so as to always arrest this kind of ambush” he noted.

Dr. Arase said the death of SP Angbashim, known for his gallantry and commitment to duty, will never be in vain adding that his colleagues should be challenged to use his death in active service as a motivation to sanitize the security environment.

The PSC Chairman also Commended the Rivers State Governor for his prompt action in announcing a financial reward for who ever assists in the arrest of the criminals.

He prayed that the Almighty God will give the family of the slain Police Officer the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Angbashim was captured, murdered and dismembered by members of a Cult group in Rivers State, Iceland, headed by Gift David Okpara Okpolowu (a.k.a.2-Baba). An outraged Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, in reaction declared Okpolowu and all the members of Iceland wanted. He also placed a N100m bounty on Okpolowu’s head to be given to anybody who provides information that would lead to his arrest and prosecution. In addition, the Governor suspended the Traditional Ruler of the Community indefinitely for his complicity in the murder. The Governor said the Traditional Ruler ceded his authority to Okpolowu and his criminal gang in the community.

Murder Of DPO: Rivers Offers N100m For Information, Declares Suspects Wanted, Suspends Monarch, Police Vows Justice

The Source

September 10, 2023

By Charles Igbo

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, shocked at the manner SP Bako Angbashim, the Divisional Police Officer, Ahoada Division, Rivers State, was gruesomely murdered, has made the sum of a N100million available to give to anybody who gives useful information for the arrest of the Leader of the cult group responsible for the atrocity.

DPO Angbashim was, on Friday, September 8, 2023, murdered in a manner which diminishes one as a human being by members of a cult group identified as Iceland, led by their leader, Gift David Okpara Okpolowu, (a.k.a 2Baba).

The DPO and his team members, including an informant, wounded in the incident, had gone for a raid at the base of very dangerous criminals in order to dislodge them. But on their way back, they ran into an ambush laid for them by the Iceland cult members and their leader. Sadly, their ammunition finished, and gave the criminals an upper hand.

The DPO’s team members retreated and escaped. But he was not that lucky. He paid the supreme price.

There are three versions of why the DPO was unable to make good his escape like the others did. While the Rivers State Police Command, in a statement, said he was fatally shot when he held his ground, and his body seized by the criminals, another version said that he suffered muscle cramps when he tried to escape, and was captured by the criminals.

But the Governor Fubara, in his statement said he was captured after he was shot, and then, murdered.

Whatever, the criminals disrespected his body. He was dismembered, including being beheaded. In the grissly video shot posted by the criminals, Angbashim’s decapitated body was strewn around, while one of the cultists, focused a torchlight on his face and taunted him.

While the Police has vowed to hunt down the killers of the DPO, and get justice, an angry Governor Fubara, moved by the dehumanisation of the DPO, raised the ante.

In a statement he signed and issued Saturday evening, the Governor declared 2-Baba wanted, and placed a N100m bounty on his head. The money would go to anybody who would give useful information which would lead to his arrest and prosecution. In same manner, the Governor declared all members of the Iceland cult group wanted. He did not spare the Traditional Ruler of the Community too. He suspended him indefinitely, for ceding the control of his Community to 2-Baba and his group.

The Governor’s statement reads: “Yesterday, 8th September. 2023, at about 7.00pm, I was briefed on the security operations around the Odiemudie Community in the Ahoada East Local Government Area of the State, and the gruesome murder of SP Bako Angbashim, the Ahoada Divisional Police Officer, by a bunch of criminals, presently at large.

“SP Bako and his team ran into an ambush while returning from their operation where they were attacked by the criminals. Unfortunately, he was shot in the ensuing gunfire, captured, and eventually, murdered by his captors.

“Credible intelligence from the Security Agencies traced the entire incident to one Gift David Okpara Okpolowu (aka 2-,Baba) and his criminal gang who have established camps in the locality and are responsible for the resurgence of violent crimes, including kidnapping and terrorism in Ahoada East Local Government Area of the State.

“As a responsible Government, we cannot fold our arms and allow criminals and crimes to rear their ugly heads and thrive in any part of our State.

“Accordingly, upon the review of the entire incident and the security situation in the affected areas with the Security Agencies, we have decided on the following measures to bring the murderers of SP Bako to justice and arrest the deteriorating security situation in the Ahoada East Local Government.

“First, the prime suspects, Mr Gift David Okpara Okpolowu, (a.k.a. 2-Baba) and all members of his criminal gang are hereby declared wanted.

“Secondly, a bounty of one hundred million Naira (N100,000,000) is hereby placed on his head for anyone who gives useful information that would lead to his arrest and prosecution.

“Thirdly, His Majesty Eze Cassidy Ikegbidi Eze Igbu Aka 11, is hereby suspended indefinitely for acts of complicity in ceding control of his territory to the notorious David Gift and his gang to freely operate and carry out their criminal activities.

“I reiterate our commitment to guaranteeing the Security of all residents and assure everyone that we will do everything in our power to hunt down Gift David and his gang and bring them to justice.”

The Governor extended his condolences to the late DPO’s family, especially, his wife and children as well as the Rivers State Police Command for the DPO’s loss.

He commended the late officer. He said: “SP Bako was a fine, brave and dutiful Police officer who gave his life to keep us safe and secure. He died in active service to his nation and we remember him for his extraordinary bravery and sacrifice.”

Governor Fubara, also, promised that the Rivers State Government will take care of his family. He said: “The Government of Rivers State will not allow his family to suffer the pains of his sudden and irreplaceable loss alone as we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul”.

The Rivers State Police Command, in a statement signed by its Spokesperson. SP Grace Iringe-Koko, titled:

Rivers Killing: We Will Not Rest Until Justice Is Served vowed justice for the late Officer.

The statement read:

“In an unfortunate incident on 8th of September ,2023, the DPO of Ahoada Division, SP Bako Angbashim, displayed exemplary courage during a mission to combat criminal activities in the Odumude Area of Ahoada East Local Government Area in Rivers State.

“SP Bako Angbashim, alongside his dedicated team, embarked on a raid of known criminal blackspots in the region. The operation led to a pursuit of criminals from their concealed hideouts. Tragically, as they were returning from this operation, they were ambushed by a significant number of criminals who opened fire on the brave officers.

“In the face of this adversity, SP Bako Angbashim valiantly held his ground, while his men, depleted of ammunition, made a tactical retreat. Regrettably, during this engagement, SP Bako Angbashim sustained fatal injuries, and one of his informants was also injured, currently receiving medical care for a gunshot wound.

“The criminals seized the body of SP Bako Angbashim, forcing the remaining officers to return to their base for reinforcement. Efforts were made to rescue and recover the DPO’s body, with assistance sought from the Army teams stationed at FOB Base Etraco. However, the operation proved challenging due to the extremely dark conditions within the dense bush.

“The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Nwonyi Polycarp Emeka, PhD, has expressed deep determination to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice. An extensive investigation is currently underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family of SP Bako Angbashim and all those affected by this distressing incident.”

But the Nigeria Police Force has come under heavy criticism since Bako’s grissly muder. Not a few people are asking why the ammunition the late Officer and his men took to such an operation deplete to the extent that the Police would run away. More scandalous, they said, the team, because of the sorry situation members found themselves abandoned their leader to his fate. Worse, they argue, his decapitated body could not be recovered that night from the forest where he was dumped, even with the help of the military. Yet, the criminals had enough time to video his dismembered body, and post on Social Media platforms. Why would the Police run short of ammunition during such dangerous operation?

It is not yet known if his decapitated body has now been recovered from the bush. Neither the Government nor the Police has given such information.

PEPC: You Sold Your Conscience For A Mess Of Pottage – Neo Africana Centre

The Source

September 9, 2023

Presidential Election Petition Tribunal 2023

The Neo Africana Centre has said that the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT) sold its conscience for a mess of pottage by adopting a position that, allegedly, was not original to it.

Reacting to the judgment of the tribunal delivered on Wednesday on the February 25 presidential election, the public policy think tank alleged it is convinced that the judgment was drafted and written from outside and merely passed over to the tribunal for adoption and affirmation.

The Centre said it came to this conclusion given the uncanny similarity between the position canvassed by the respondents in the matter and the verdict of the PEPT.

It, therefore, submitted that such a coincidence is not only disingenuous but also doubtful and suspicious.

In a statement by its Director of Public Affairs, Jenkins Udu, the Centre argued that it is only an unusual development that can make members of the bench such as the Justices in the instant case to throw the law overboard and rely on handouts that are procured from outside to serve a programmed purpose. Even worse in the matter is that the intruders who procured the judgment for the Justices subjected our laws and Constitution to perverse interpretations that are strange to both the letter and spirit of such laws.

The statement reads in part:

“After a thorough review of the judgment delivered by the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT) on the February 25 presidential election, we have come to the conclusion that the judgment is not original to the tribunal. Rather, what played out suggests that their Lordships sold their conscience for a mess of pottage and, consequently, abdicated their responsibility both to themselves and to the country all in the bid to serve the interest of external agents and perverse forces. In fact, the uncanny similarity between the content of the judgment and what the respondents canvassed in court bears eloquent testimony to this and therefore gives the judgment away as something procured from outside.

“Consequently, after taking a dispassionate look at the issues around the judgment, we have come to the reasoned conclusion that the judgment was not written by the Justices that sat in the tribunal. Instead, it was drafted and written by external agents and then passed on to the tribunal for adoption and affirmation. That was why matters that border on the constitution and the laws of the land were subjected to whimsical treatment by the tribunal. A case in point is Section 134 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, which clearly states that “A candidate for an election to the office of president…..must have nothing less than one-quarter of the votes cast at the election in each of at least two-thirds of all the States in the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.”

“We find it strange that this clear and unambiguous constitutional provision was subjected to a perverse interpretation to suit the purpose of those who have been caught on the wrong side of the law. This is not only fraudulent, it is dishonest and unconscionable.

“We are equally perplexed that the Electoral Act, 2022 , the grundnorm upon which the activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission rested in the conduct of the 2023 general elections, was treated as an optional piece of law. That was why the provision of the act which mandates the electoral commission to transmit results electronically was observed in breach. Yet, their Lordships defended the aberration. This twist introduced to matters that are legally binding in order to arrive at a predetermined outcome is an affront to our electoral jurisprudence and an embarrassment to the Nigerian legal system.

“By their action, Justices of the PEPT led by Justice Simon Tsamani have failed themselves and the country that they were called to serve. We are disturbed that this is happening in 21st Century Nigeria where efforts are being made to consolidate democratic governance. The judgment of the PEPT, if allowed to stand, can only take Nigeria 100 years backward.

“We therefore urge the Supreme Court on whose shoulder the mantle has finally fallen to respect the laws of the land and deliver a judgment in which justice will not only be served but will be seen to have been served.”

Ondo New LCDAs Birthed As Gov Akeredolu Signs Bill Into Law

Ayodele Oni

September 9, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi , SAN, has assented to the bill creating Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state.

While away on medical leave, the State House of Assembly passed into law a bill creating additional 34 LCDAs from the existing 18 Local Councils.

The new LCDAs have caused disaffection among communities in the state as some claimed that they were cheated or their land annexed to others.

Signing into law the bill is the first major assignment of the Governor after he announced his resumption from medical leave on Friday.

The bill was presented to the Governor for assent by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Oladiji Landmark Olamide, during a brief ceremony in Ibadan, Oyo state.

The Deputy Speaker, Prince Abayomi Akinruntan ; Majority Leader, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi ; and the Parliamentary Secretary, Otunba Moyinolorun Ogunwumiju were also present.

With the Governor’s assent, the bill, which had already been passed by the State House of Assembly, now possesses the legal backing for the creation of the LCDAs in Ondo State.

Governor Akeredolu’s Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olabode, in a statement on Saturday, said the establishment of the LCDAs marks a substantial step towards fulfilling Governor Akeredolu’s campaign promises and addressing the aspirations of the people for enhanced grassroots development.

“Moreover, this initiative underscores Governor Akeredolu’s unwavering commitment to improving public service delivery, as it aims at bringing governance closer to the people, ultimately resulting in more responsive and efficient services.

“Governor Akeredolu remains dedicated to delivering impactful projects and innovative initiatives, just as he is poised to redouble his efforts in advancing the development of the Sunshine State.”

November 11: Group Holds One Million Man March For Uzodinma’s Reelection

The Source

September 9, 2023

The gale of endorsement for Governor Hope Uzodimma’s second term got even more pronounced at the weekend with a group of young men and women under the umbrella of Hope Community Vanguard stagging a one million man march in support of his re-election come November 11,2023.

The group’s membership cuts across the 27 local government areas of Imo State.

The members who are also stakeholders in the security architecture of Imo State used the opportunity of the march to pledge to vote massively and protect their votes for Governor Uzodimma in November.

The march saw the group setting out from the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square through the Bank road and eventually terminating at the Government House round about on Okigwe road where they were received by the Governor.

The leader of the group, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Motor Parks in Imo State, Pastor Frank Onwumere, said the march was to show appreciation, solidarity and gratitude to the Governor for all his good works that are unprecedented in the State and to assure him of the group’s unalloyed support as he seeks reelection for a second term.

To reassure the Governor of their support, Pastor Onwumere said the group found it auspicious to bestow a meritorious Award on the Governor in appreciation for what he has done in Imo and also, “to unanimously endorse him for a second tenure.”

Addressing the group, Governor Uzodimma thanked them for coming to identify with him and assured them that his government will work with them to make Imo better.

“Go back to your various Communities and take the message of peace, reconciliation and unity back and work together with officers of government in the Communities to ensure overall peace in our land,” the Governor charged them.

On behalf of himself and government of Imo State, he promised that he will continue to serve Imo State well to the Glory of God.

Peter Obi Writes Obidient Family, Tells Them “Despair Is Not An Option”

The Source

September 9, 2023

My Dear Obidient Family and Supporters,

I trust that you all have listened to or read my reaction to the judgment delivered by the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) on Wednesday, 6th September 2023.

Understandably, there has been a note of general disappointment within our fold and indeed the general population of Nigerians who hoped that the outcome of the February 25th Presidential election would usher in a new and different Nigeria of our dreams. That dream has only been deferred for now but remains alive for all times. Since the Tribunal verdict, there has been a note of general despair among the Obidients and the generality of our supporters. I assure you all that on this journey, despair or surrender is not in our options.

Today, I want to personally reach out and encourage you all to keep hope alive. Considering the challenges that lie ahead of us as a movement, despair is not an option. Nothing good in life comes easy. Throughout history, positive changes come only with sacrifices, perseverance, resilience, and fluctuating fortunes. Right from the onset of our journey, I told you all that the journey upon which we were about to embark was not a short sprint but a long and tough marathon. It was always going to be difficult, painful, and excruciating.

We set out knowing fully well that the forces we are up against are entrenched and formidable but not insurmountable. They would resist the wind of change and try to push us into surrender or despair. We must not succumb to their design. I am inspired that we have endured the odds placed in our way at every point. In such a short space of time, we have persevered to get to the point where we can not be ignored any longer. Therefore, I urge you to abide and never think of giving up.

I wish to assure you that our recent disappointments have inspired me to re-dedicate myself to the cause of building a New Nigeria. For me, rescuing Nigeria is a lifelong commitment, and on this journey, we shall be resolute but orderly, principled but lawful.

I assure you that we shall persist with even greater determination and zeal until we get to our destination. Nigeria must belong to all Nigerians and not to a select few.

Like all of you, I believe fervently that a New Nigeria is POssible. God bless you all, and God bless Nigeria.

-PO

Wike Denies Inviting EFCC Against His Predecessor, Acknowledges Irregularities In Contracts

Ayodele Oni

September 9, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesome Wike, has explained that it was true there were irregularities in some contracts awarded by his predecessor, at the Federal Capital, but that the anti-graft agencies have not been invited to probe the past administration at the FCT.

Wike, immediate past Governor of Rivers state, had expressed concern about some contracts and the huge debt burden he inherited at the FCT.

On Friday, the Social Media was awash with reports that Wike had written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, to report his predecessor over the unprecedented irregularities he noticed in the award of contracts.

But a statement on Saturday by the Director of Press, FCT, Anthony Ogunleye, stated that at no time has Wike invited the anti graft body to probe immediate past Minister of the FCT.

The statement added that the immediate past FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello, has not been invited in relation to certain irregularities in the award of contracts and other such matters.

“The FCT Minister, during his routine inspections of various projects within the FCT, indeed expressed concerns and frustrations regarding irregularities observed in the procurement and execution of certain projects, amongst other observations which he very publicly expressed.

“However, at no point did he contemplate or authorize any action by anyone within or outside the FCT Administration to invite the EFCC or ICPC to investigate the former FCT Minister in connection with these or any other matters.

“The FCT Minister remains focused on his responsibilities to ensure the efficient and transparent administration of the Federal Capital Territory.

“Any actions or decisions taken by the FCTA in this regard will be communicated through official channels and in accordance with due process.

“Barrister Nyesom Wike remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability in the discharge of his duties and remains committed to building the FCT of our collective dreams.”

Gov Akeredolu Appreciates Tinubu, VP, Nigerians For Prayers, Support While On Sick Bed; Says President, Dependable Leader

Ayodele Oni

September 9, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu has said that prayers were the potent enhancers which aided his recovery and deepened his abiding faith in God and service to humanity.

Akeredolu returned to the country on Thursday after a three-month medical leave.

In a thank you message to Nigerians on Saturday, Akeredolu said he was deeply “touched by the show of love and affections from eminent individuals, groups, Organisations, political associates, and particularly, the good people of the Sunshine State – Ondo.

“Your outpour of love wrapped in prayers, kind words, cheering messages, affectionate support as well as countless display of varied forms of brotherliness during my recovery process were heart-lifting.

“The love and prayers were, indeed, potent enhancers which aided my recovery and deepened my abiding faith in God and service to humanity.

“Undoubtedly, gratitude is the greatest spark that lights fire in the soul. I consider these gestures as uncommon privileges which underscores the importance of the gift of humanity.

“I appreciate the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and love. Mr. President, you are a reliable ally and a dependable leader. I am deeply grateful.

“I equally thank the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio; and all Members of the Senate.

“My profound gratitude to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) led by its Chairman and Executive Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq; and the Progressives Governors Forum, (PGF) led by Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma.

“My sincere appreciation to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abass Tajudeen; and all Members of the House of Representatives; Members of the Federal Executive Council; National Leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by the Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje and other prominent leaders in the party.

“A big thank you to the leadership of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) including prominent members of the inner and outer Bars. My special appreciation to all Honourable Justices of the High, Appeal and Supreme Courts. My Lords, I am grateful.

“I am particularly grateful to the people of Ondo State and Nigerians at large for your prayers and supports.

“I thank members of the Ondo State House of Assembly; Members of the State Executive Council; the recently dissolved Local Government Chairmen; Heads of Security Agencies; Revered Royal fathers ; Both Serving and Retired Bishops, Chief Imam, Clergymen and other religious leaders; Forum of Permanent Secretaries; Labour Leaders, All Civil Servants; Political Leaders across Parties ; Market Women, Artisans and Members of the State Park Management Committee; and as well as others too numerous to mention.

“My appreciation also goes to Captains of industries, friends and acquaintances, extended family members, among others. Your kindness and affection are priceless and your love, inestimable.

“Above all, I return all glory, honour and adoration to God Almighty for His immense grace, healing and mercy over me and my family. May His mercy and limitless grace continue to abide in us all.

“To the good people of Ondo State, our determination and resolve to improve the lives of our people and prosecute our conviction for developing our dear State are unwavering.

“We shall continue to toe the path of progress and double our efforts to achieve set goals and objectives in line with the “REDEEMED” agenda of our administration. We are back, and better.”

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