Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory minister has revealed that a former governor of Ondo state, Olusegun Mimiko provided the vehicles for his inauguration when he came to office in 2015.
According to him, his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi did not leave vehicles for him while he was leaving office.
The minister who is currently in a battle for control of the state with his successor spoke recently in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital during a thanksgiving church service organised by a former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Felix Obuah, saying he ensured that Governor Simi Fubara was well provided for before his inauguration in May last year.
Wike said, “I laid the foundation but nobody laid the foundation for me, I came and saw nothing. No handover note to me. I didn’t have any car even on my swearing-in day. I had to borrow car from Ondo State. The governor then, Mimiko donated their own car to us for my swearing-in.”
The former governor said he regretted supporting Fubara to become governor, noting that he should have thrown his weight behind Obuah who was among those who wanted to succeed him at the time.
Governor Fubara in his quest to assert himself as the state chief executive has now charted his own path to the anger of the former governor.
Wike begged the former PDP chairman for forgiveness, stressing that no one is above mistakes. If another situation presents itself, Wike said he would act differently.
The FCT minister said: “Leadership is all about firmness, it’s all about courage, it’s all about transparency. When a leader takes a decision that is wrong, nothing stops that leader from coming back to say, I am sorry for that decision I took,” Wike said.
“My relationship with Felix Obuah started 2004, when he became the Chairman of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government. That was my second tenure and that was his first tenure.
“He showed that he is a man whom God has blessed and therefore he always contributes to people in appreciation of God’s favour in his life.
“It may be painful on how Obuah was treated by the then government, but he is one of those people that will not hesitate to obey my decision. That is why I say, today, I will use this opportunity to do something that is uncommon. In 2023, if you look at those which ordinarily I should support for governorship, Go Round (Obuah) should be one of them in forefront.
“That is if we do things based on your contribution, based on your support, Go Round is the first two persons that ought to get my support. So, I want to use this opportunity to apologise to all of you, to ONELGA for taking a decision that hurt you. I am sorry.
“Your judgement may not be right all the time, but I am a human being, I may make mistake, but it’s important for you realise your mistake and apologise to the people. So, I beg you to beg Go Round to forgive me. I hope one day another opportunity may come, but let nobody lose faith.”
The State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Imo State Chapter, Engr. Charles Ugwu, has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Ugwu, a former Minister for Commerce and Industry under the late President Umaru Yar’Adua’s Government, was arrested in Owerri by the anti-graft agency.
Ugwu, an entrepreneur and founder of Rokana Industries, was arrested over an alleged conspiracy and loan fraud to the tune of N3.6 billion.
In a statement issued by the Head of Media and Publicity of the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, on Monday, he said Engr. Ugwu was arrested alongside Chief Geoffrey Ekenma on January 11, 2024, at No.2, Musa Yar Adua Way, New Owerri, Imo State.
He said the arrest of Ugwu and Ekenma is a consequence of “a petition to the Commission from a new generation bank on the alleged fraud perpetrated through a company, Ebony Agro Industries Ltd., linked to the ex-minister.
EFCC’s statement reads:
“Investigations revealed that Ugwu and Ekenma, Managing Director, Ebony Agro Industries Ltd., allegedly obtained a loan facility from the bank for the purchase and production of polished rice.
“However, the suspect, according to the petitioner, failed to meet his obligations to the bank, and all efforts to get him to repay the loan facility proved abortive. The suspects would be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.”
Ugwu was elected chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Imo State unopposed. He has, recently, been embattled following his suspension from office by a faction of the Party. The National Leadership of the PDP, however, dismissed the suspension as null and void and of no consequence.
Civil Society for Peace, Security and Development (CSPSD) has kicked against the move to constitutionally empower the office of the National Security Adviser, (NSA) through an act of the National Assembly.
The group maintained that the urgency of the proposed bill and hurried move to pass it into law is nothing but a desperate attempt by the NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, to not only usurp the powers of the Agencies, but raises questions about the balance of authority and the potential impact on the existing framework.
“It also raises concerns about the overarching intentions of the bill which are obviously not in line with the principles of effective governance and transparency.
“This insatiable ambition of the NSA and his strategies are no doubt averse to the synergy, coordination and collaborative platforms which the ONSA is expected to avail Security agencies.
“His quest to validate the NSA as an institution is duplicative of responsibilities and would rather cost the federal government more resources.
Spokesman of the CSPSD, Obadiah Solomon Ovye at a press conference, noted that “it was strange law for the appointment of Staff of the Office of the National Security Adviser and retention of quality and skilled manpower to enhance institutional memory and effective performance of the responsibilities of the Office of the NSA.”
Under the proposed Act, the NSA may, among others, appoint such number of Staff as he deems necessary and expedient for the proper and efficient performance of the functions of the office under the national security Act or any other law or instrument, centres or programmes established under the office; on such terms and conditions including remuneration, allowances and benefits as may be determined, from time to time by the NSA.
The group observed that “While the prerogative to introduce bills rests with members of the legislative body, the bill in contention is shrouded in inadequacies that warrant careful scrutiny and consideration.
“The said bill, if enacted, would give the NSA sweeping powers that would allow it to bypass existing checks and balances and operate with little oversight.
“This would create a dangerous concentration of power in the hands of a single individual and undermine the principles of democracy and accountability. More disturbing is that the Act when in existence will undermine the President.
“In addition, the Office of the NSA does not have full autonomy and traditionally relies on staff from support agencies (Army, Navy, Airforce, Police, NIA and DSS) on secondment.
“This approach has proven effective over the years and fosters a cohesive integrated and collaborative approach. However, if the NSA’s office were to become independent, the dual responsibility of oversight and coordination could overwhelm the individual in the role.
“This would inadvertently lead to a fragmented system and impact adversely on timely coordinated execution of vital security initiatives with implication for the nation’s ability to respond effectively to emerging threats and challenges.
“Most importantly, the establishment of an independent agency by the NSA to handle security matters introduces the risk of creating a parallel platform. This new agency has the potential to operate independently and could, in effect, wield influence and authority thereby weakening the president’s control over security matters as the new agency could act independently, possibly going against what the president wants.”
The full text of Press Conference, signed by Obadiah Solomon Ovye reads:
A PRESS CONFERENCE HELD BY CIVIL SOCIETY FOR PEACE, SECURITY AND DEVELOPMENT (CSPSD) IN RESPECT OF THE BILL FOR AN ACT TO PROVIDE A FRAMEWORK FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF STAFF OF THE OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISER TO ENHANCE INSTITUTIONAL MEMORY AND EFFECTIVE PERFORMANCE OF THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE NSA AND FOR RELATED MATTERS
“Gentlemen of the Press
“Thank you for joining us today as we gather to address a matter of great national security concern and importance that has captured our collective attention. You must have been aware of the plans, many of which are clandestine to impress, cajole, persuade, force and/or intimidate the National Assembly by some dark agents and forces to enact a strange law for the appointment of Staff of the Office of the National Security Adviser and retention of quality and skilled manpower to enhance institutional memory and effective performance of the responsibilities of the Office of the NSA.
“According to the proposed Act, the NSA may, among others, appoint such number of Staff as he deems necessary and expedient for the proper and efficient performance of the functions of the office under the national security Act or any other law or instrument, centres or programmes established under the office; on such terms and conditions including remuneration, allowances and benefits as may be determined, from time to time by the NSA.
“The above is just the synopsis of the ambitious Bill being desperately pursued by some shady interests. While concerned about the real intent of the Bill, we wish to further raise some issues or ask the following questions:
Why is an important Bill as the one seeking an expanded role for the NSA not an Executive Bill? Why is it not emanating from the President? Why was such bill not tabled before the National Security and Defence Councils for their inputs before being taken to the National Assembly?
“ii. Why was the public hearing for the bill earlier slated before the end of January, 2024 hurriedly brought back to 30th December, 2023 – a Saturday and without well circulated information for the change in date?
“iii. Who is seeking to enact the Act on the argument of enhancing an institutional memory and effective performance of the responsibilities of the NSA? We wish to ask: What has happened to the office of the Permanent Secretary, Special Services Office (PS SSO) designed to administratively coordinate the intelligence community and by implication serve as the institutional memory for national security management;
“iv. Why does the NSA wish to become an Agency when Section 4(2) of the National Security Act categorically states that: “The Coordinator on National Security shall be a Principal Staff Officer in the Office of the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces?
“v. Why does the NSA plan to operationalise his office with full compliments of permanent staff when such are already seconded by security agencies? Will this not enlarge the Budget which the Government is trying to reduce?
“While the prerogative to introduce bills rests with members of the legislative body, the bill in contention is shrouded in inadequacies that warrant careful scrutiny and consideration. The said bill, if enacted, would give the NSA sweeping powers that would allow it to bypass existing checks and balances and operate with little oversight. This would create a dangerous concentration of power in the hands of a single individual and undermine the principles of democracy and accountability. More disturbing is that the Act when in existence will undermine the President.
“In addition, the Office of the NSA does not have full autonomy and traditionally relies on staff from support agencies (Army, Navy, Airforce, Police, NIA and DSS) on secondment. This approach has proven effective over the years and fosters a cohesive integrated and collaborative approach. However, if the NSA’s office were to become independent, the dual responsibility of oversight and coordination could overwhelm the individual in the role. This would inadvertently lead to a fragmented system and impact adversely on timely coordinated execution of vital security initiatives with implication for the nation’s ability to respond effectively to emerging threats and challenges.
“Most importantly, the establishment of an independent agency by the NSA to handle security matters introduces the risk of creating a parallel platform. This new agency has the potential to operate independently and could, in effect, wield influence and authority thereby weakening the president’s control over security matters as the new agency could act independently, possibly going against what the president wants.
“Consequently, the proposed bill and urgency to pass it into law is nothing but a desperate attempt by the NSA to not only usurp the powers of the agencies under it, but raises questions about the balance of authority and the potential impact on the existing framework. It also raises concerns about the overarching intentions of the bill which are obviously not in line with the principles of effective governance and transparency. This insatiable ambition of the NSA and his strategies are no doubt averse to the synergy, coordination and collaborative platforms which the ONSA is expected to avail Security agencies. His quest to validate the NSA as an institution is duplicative of responsibilities and would rather cost the federal government more resources.
“From our investigations, it has been revealed that the Office of the NSA, has within its facility, the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light weapons, a National Cybersecurity Commission and more worrisome, a recently built cell for holding suspects. How is this obtainable or acceptable in a democratic setting? Even in the United States, the role of the National Security Advisor does not transcend beyond coordination. It therefore begs the question, why the rush to operationalise the Office of the NSA beyond its traditional and constitutional roles. It is not only highly suspicious but ominous and questions the real motives behind such actions.
“The establishment of these units under the NSA not only amount to a direct encroachment on the responsibilities of existing organisation but in the long term, would have potential consequences on the coordination of national security efforts.
Indisputably, granting the NSA the power to independently recruit permanent personnel is tantamount to opening the door to political patronage and cronyism as well as potentially compromise the integrity of security operations. It could also give room for those recruited to enter the organisation without adhering to the usual background checks. Subsequently, those appointed may not undergo the traditional progression in ranks which is a fundamental requirement for assuming sensitive roles within the security architecture. In the end, the hierarchical structure and integrity of personnel entrusted with crucial security responsibility will indubitably be compromised.
“On the other hand, recruitment from the top opens the Nigerian security architecture to moles, spies and politically exposed persons who may have leanings towards particular political orientations where as such staff should be apolitical. It is also looking like someone is interested in expanding the Office of the NSA for selfish political reasons. It is a known fact that the present occupier is politically exposed and had once contested the Presidency. Thus could this planned expansion be in furtherance of that ambition? We are further convinced that the bill is ill-timed.
“To strengthen our concerns about the questionable nature of the controversial bill, certain legislators clearly influenced through lobbying, clandestinely assembled on a Saturday (a non-working day) to discuss it. More disturbing is the fact that after the first sitting on the bill on 23rd November, 2023 where it was stepped down by majority of lawmakers, a subsequent date for further hearing was set for 27th January, 2024. But instead of waiting for this date, there was a secret plan to bring the date forward. To the best of our knowledge, there was no emergency warranting the rush. So what is driving the haste and the kangaroo moves surrounding the process? This Bill is nothing short of a political manoeuvre capable of inciting significant unrest among the security agencies.
We are, therefore, drawing the attention of Mr President, all relevant stakeholders and supporters of this great country, Nigeria to oppose the ill- intentioned and ill-conceived bill which is aimed at monopolising the country’s security apparatus at the detriment of our national interest. The legislation is harmful and we implore Mr President and patriotic citizens to join hands in standing against it in order to protect the integrity of our country’s security.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, Aba Branch, has called for a drastic reformation of the Legal System in Nigeria to bring it in tune with the current dynamics and realities on the ground.
Egwu said the country’s legal system needs to be purged of some, if not most of the received laws from our colonial masters, adding that they are no longer relevant to the administration of justice system in Nigeria.
In an interview with The Source, Barrister Egwu noted that while Nigeria has continued to hold on to most of the received laws, those who gave them to us have since discarded them.
“Frankly speaking, we require a very drastic reformation of our legal system .There is something called Received English laws that were operational in England as far back as 1900.We made our laws based on most of those received laws.
“This was mainly because ,at independence we needed laws ,and had to rely on those received laws.
But ironically ,we are still operating most of those received laws, even when those that gave them to us have discarded them.
“Despite a whole lot of those received laws being discarded in both Western and Eastern Regions as early as 1963 ,some of them are still there.” Egwu noted
He blamed the seemingly inability of the country to embark on a meaningful reformation of laws on lack of sincerity of purpose on the part of those saddled with the responsibilities.
According to Egwu, selfishness on the part of major actors in the task of reforming the country,s legal system has continued to stall the process.
“Most of our laws are obsolete. Even some laws that were not received are obsolete as well. But the problem is that the political class are really in charge .
“Most of the bills are presented from the nursery stages as ,executive bills where some people already have their interests and targets. Before sending the bills , the Executive will first of all look at how the proposed law will benefit and or negatively affect it .
This is the root cause why some provisions in the Electoral Act were left as non obligatory.
“Some people believe that making such provisions like the issue of transmission of election results electronically have the potentials of undermining their electoral fortunes.
All will need is to muster the required political will in our quest for the reformation of our laws .
“There have been calls for the establishment of a constitution review committee. But people should also not forget that there must be a law that will mandate the formation of any constitution review committee. There again politics will come in ” the NBA chairman stated.
According to Egwu, the tendencies for people to misunderstand and accuse the judiciary of alleged bias and compromise in their rulings ,especially in political cases boils down to lack of adequate knowledge of the laws by most of the critics .
” It is laughable when some people will be accusing the judiciary of trying to undermine our democracy through its pronouncements.
“I believe that the Judiciary, to those who understand what the law says, is rather working hard to protect our democracy.
“From your question concerning how three or five people will just sit down and upturn the will of millions of people.
“Well, this is a serious misconception. The judiciary is not out to upturn what anybody has done. Rather ,it is there to ensure that what ever those three millions and or more people have done is in accordance with the laid down procedures.
“Our democracy is a constitutional democracy. And that being the case, if some three million people should do what is not constitutional and in the process produce a winner, it is then the duty and responsibility of the three people to tell the three million people, ‘you have done well but you didn’t follow the the laid down rules in the performance of your duty’.
“The problem is that some people want the judiciary to follow three million people and accept their unconstitutional decisions just because it came massively.” Egwu noted.
Until the very last minute before Nigeria’s Apex Court pronounced its judgement on the legal tussle for the Kano State seat of power on Friday January 12,2024, not a few political plaudits and observers had envisaged a State that will be engulfed in a monumental conflagration, regardless of the side the pendulum of the Court’s ruling would swing.
Yet, it was not a perception anchored on nothingness, but on the trajectories of a political enclaved widely acknowledged for its near zero tolerance for manipulative political tendencies over the years.
However, from the point of the pronouncement of the ruling in favour of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to his triumphant return to the anxient commercial city on Sunday, January 14, Kano continued to cut an image of not only a State at peace with itself, but classical case study in political tolerance, hence rendering nugetary all permutations to the contrary.
The Source News magazine findings have revealed that Dr Nasiru Gawuna, the rival All Progressive Congress, APC’s speech in Abuja, immediately after the Supreme Court ruling was a soothing balm, as his message accepting defeat and premising same on the Will of God was said to have resonated with majority of APC followers in the state.
According to a chieftain of APC in the State, Gawuna’s speech and congratulatory massage to Governor Yusuf and the rival NNPP, apart from serving to sooth frayed nerves was believed to have prompted many outside the NNPP family to join in the rousing welcome party for the Governor.
The Source News Magazine reports that the reception/ victory rally which commenced from neighbouring Kaduna State, saw thousands of enthusiastic crowd line up from the Chiromawa / Karna Dangora axis of the boundary between Kaduna and Kano waiting all day to welcome back Governor Yusuf.
“We normally believe that power belongs to God.And He gives same to any one He chooses.
“The APC as a Party and our amiable flagbear Dr Gawuna have fought a good battle.
It is time to move on. But it is our prayer that the APC as a party will find a way to continue to tap from the potentials and sterling leadership qualities of Dr Gawuna”, Hon Seyi Olorusogun a chieftain of the party in kano told The Source.
A peaceful and calm Kano post Supreme court ruling, The Source News Magazine gathered, has continued to rattle Security Agencies, which had, in the wake of the tensions, anxiety and palpable apprehension that trailed both the tribunal and Appeal court rulings, embarked on series of proactive measures to secure the State.
The State Police Command had, on December 22 2023, in the aftermath of Political missiles being hauled from all the political camps , declared no fewer than 72 alleged notorious thugs operating in some parts of the Kano Metropolis wanted.
According to the State Commissioner of Police, Mohammad Hussaini Gumel, the 72 wanted thugs are linked with the alleged criminal activities of one notorious bandit – Bahago Afah, whose primary aims are the instigation of crises as well as capitalizing on the situation to disposes innocent people of their valuables. He noted that by their alleged criminal activities, they have proved to be enemies of the society” and we hereby declare them enemies”
The proactive security measures also led to the ringing of tight survailence on some politically exposed persons and perceived trouble makers in all the political camps.
The huge security presence climaxed on Thursday January 11 after a joint meeting of all the Heads of Security Agencies in the State, with the deployment of combat ready and sophisticated security equipment to all the perceived flash points across the state, with the Police Commissioner gleefully noting that they are on top of the security situation.
However, as it has turned out, the commercial center of the Northern Region appears not only to radiate peace, but seems not ready to court violence.
Meanwhile, Governor Yusuf has annouced plans to inaugurate a Security Trust Fund, in a move to curtail insecurity in the state .
The Governor, who spoke at the occasion of the commemoration of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day on Monday January 15, promised to prioritize the protection of lives and property of the citizens .
“Very soon we are going to invite eminent kano Residents and other Nigerians we feel can assist so that we take measures to curtail the level of insecurity in the State” Governor Yusuf stated
Imo safe, happy and ready for business, says Tinubu
21 First Ladies join Imo First Lady At Ceremony
After his inauguration on Monday for a second term in office, Governor Hope Uzodimma told the people of Imo State to expect more development in the next four years.
Governor Uzodimma and his new Deputy, Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru, were inaugurated at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, at a well attended ceremony that attracted the high and mighty from Imo State and beyond including from the Presidency, the National Assembly, the Judiciary, the traditional institution, the clergy, the academia, captains of industries and others.
The Chief Judge of Imo State, Justice Theresa Chikeka administered the oath on Governor Uzodimma and his deputy, Lady Ekomaru, surrounded by their family members.
In a massive show of solidarity, the Imo State First Lady, Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, led other 21 First Ladies to grace the occasion.
Governor Uzodimma said massive economic development and concerted efforts to sustain the gains of the foundation already laid for economic prosperity of the State is a task his second term must accomplish.
“I want us to see the event of today as remarkable because it opens a new page in our history. That new page is the commencement of our determined march to economic growth and self sufficiency. It heralds the new dawn in our efforts to develop Imo State and make it one of the leading industrial states in Nigeria and indeed, West Africa. This is our vision and mission, and it is doable.”
President Bola Tinubu and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
The Governor also reiterated his pledge in his New Year meassage, that his second term performance will exceed and in fact, dwarf that of his first term.
In his brief keynote address after witnessing the inauguration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remarked that he was glad that “today, Imo is safe, happy and ready for business.”
Governor Uzodimma in his address assured that his second term ambition is to work to ensure that Imo State is the industrial hub of the South East, Nigeria, and West Africa.
“It is one that our generation must accomplish, to the glory of God,” he said adding “my second tenure shall be defined by an uncommon apostolic zeal and tenacious application of clinical efficiency in the execution of policies.”
The Governor promised that the massive economic development of Imo State with emphasis on 15 sectors will permeate every community or ward through the Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI) where, in the next 12 months, each community will have something to show, based on their needs as government presence, either in the area of electricity, portable water, health centre, market etc.
The Governor’s address read in full
“My esteemed and beloved people of Imo State, it is to the glory of God that we are privileged to witness this momentous occasion of my swearing in as the governor of Imo State for a second tenure. I am mindful of the fact that this would not have been possible without your love and support at the governorship election of November 11, 2023. I thank you all most sincerely.
“As you witnessed, I have just performed the solemn ritual of taking the oath of office to defend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to serve Imo people faithfully. Expectedly, the oath-taking ended with the invocation of God to help me. For me, this is not a mere ritual. It is a renewal of my covenant with God and the good people of Imo State. That covenant is to serve Imo people honestly and faithfully, to the best of my ability and with the fear of God.
“So, as I give God the glory for making this day possible, I once again declare my profound gratitude to Imo people who, through their unprecedented massive support for me in the November 11th, 2023 governorship election, made this day possible. Never in the history of democracy in our state has any governor won in all the local governments, but you did it for me. Thank you very much indeed. By that victory, I entered into a social contract with all Imo people, and it is a contract I intend to honour.
“I cannot proceed further without extending my deepest appreciation to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for honouring us today with his highly esteemed presence. Mr. President Sir, Imo people feel very happy indeed that you squeezed out time from your usually crowded programmes to be personally present at this event. It speaks volumes of your love for Imo people. Thank you Mr. President and welcome.
“I also welcome in a very special way, all State governors here present, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the National Chairman of our great party, His Excellency Abdulahi Umar Ganduje, members of the National Assembly, Hon Ministers, highly revered traditional rulers, notable leaders and members of the clergy from different parts of the country.
“On that note, let me gladly recall that in the last four years, we have demonstrated a high degree of commitment to duty. We demonstrated vision and purpose. We were also able to demonstrate that managing public funds honestly, prudently and transparently is doable and also yields more dividends of democracy.
“Expectedly, our shared prosperity mantra, which is the philosophical fulcrum of my administration, was able to address the problem of infrastructure deficit and the near absence of governance that we met on the ground in January, 2020. Through the provision of extensive road infrastructure, we have been able to lay a solid foundation for the accelerated economic growth and development of our state. We also addressed the decay in the civil service, education, and the health sector.
“In addition, we addressed the lingering problem of unemployment, through a variety of youth empowerment initiatives and artificial intelligence that included the provision of digital and other portable skills. There is, therefore, no gainsaying that the right foundations were put in place in the last four years to enable our state to move to the next level. Now, another tenure of four years has been availed to us, and we are ready, able, and determined to take our state to that next level.
“The next four years of my administration will, therefore, focus firmly on deepening our shared prosperity mantra through massive infrastructure expansion to ensure accelerated economic growth. I have already signaled this new direction in the 2024 budget in which capital expenditure has the lion share of 491.2b of the total budget of 591.2b or 83% of the budget. This transformational journey, which we have commenced with the 2024 budget, will be sustained in the next four years.
“In doing so, our vision will be anchored on our 10-year Development Plan, which has been outlined in my vision document. This development plan has the capacity to transform Imo State into an industrial, self- sufficient state in the next ten years.
“This 10-year development plan is also designed to deepen the intervention framework of my 3R mantra of Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction.
“In the development plan we have identified priority sectors, including industries and projects, which will accelerate the economic prosperity of our dear Imo State such as the Orashi Free Trade Zone and the supporting businesses such as petrochemicals industries, gas processing facilities, etc.
“Another focus of the plan is to harness our agricultural potentials and exploit the mineral resources and align them to the proposed establishment of ceramic industry and agro processing facilities across the three senatorial districts of Imo State. The lifespan of the development plan was deliberately made to last beyond my tenure because I believe that government is a continuum.
“Let me assure you that, on my honour, I am determined to exceed my own first tenure records. As I said in my New Year broadcast, my second tenure achievements will dwarf the achievements of my first tenure. Those who followed the evangelical zeal of St. Paul in the Bible would know that he put in more effort in his second missionary journey because he wanted to consolidate on the gains of the first journey. That spirit of St Paul’s second missionary journey shall be the spirit that will drive my second tenure.
“In like manner, I have been greatly inspired by the audacious and visionary transformational programmes and policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. His emphasis on infrastructure development through generous budgetary provisions for capital expenditure define the qualities of a leader that is burning with the fervent desire to develop his country.
“I am therefore delighted to affirm that my second tenure will be centred on the massive economic development of the state, which will permeate every community or ward. We shall kick start this through our Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI). Consequently, within the first 12 months of the current tenure, every community in the state will feel the impact with at least one significant project fully executed for them.
“Consequently, in the coming weeks, working with the local government council leadership, each community will be expected to identify one project that they want the government to do for them. The chosen project must have a direct and immediate impact on the overall economy of the communities. It could be in the form of provision of electricity, potable water, road, a health centre or a market development project. Further details and modalities for this community economic development initiative will be made available within the next few weeks.
From left: Governor Hope Uzodimma, President Bola Tinubu and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.
“As I mentioned earlier, the policy thrust of my second tenure would continue to be massive investments in infrastructure, full recovery of the economy to a sustainable level, human capital development with emphasis on youth empowerment and educational advancement of our children, coupled with the further invigoration of the civil service for more efficient service delivery. Anything recurrent is considered the normal or statutory business of government. Therefore, it must be taken care of in the course of governance. In my normal tradition, the prompt payment of salaries and pensions will remain a priority.
“My priority areas going forward will be on 15 critical sectors needed for the sustainable development of Imo State. This will be in tandem with my 3R mantra and the 10-year Development Plan as earlier mentioned. The areas are:
Road infrastructure
Education
Health
Sanitation
Water Supply
Agriculture and Food Security
Housing and New Cities Development.
Digital infrastructure
Transportation Infrastructure
Market Access
Industrial Policy
Safety / Security
Enabling Laws and Policies
Public Financial Management
Electricity Infrastructure
“In line with the standard institutional framework, each of these sectors is to be implemented in such a manner that the results would readily impact the economy and standard of living of the citizenry.
“My dear brothers and sisters, as you know, Imo State belongs to all of us, and building the state of our dream will require the contributions of everyone of us, irrespective of our political affiliations. The time has come to bury all those differences so we can work collectively to develop our state. Remember, this is the only state we can truly call our own. Therefore, we should all think of how we can contribute to her growth instead of leaving it to the government alone.
“The least we can do to demonstrate our love and patriotic zeal for our state is to be law-abiding and responsible citizens who take our civic obligations to our state seriously. Our simple civic obligations like paying taxes, observing traffic rules, and keeping our environment clean can go a long way toward helping the government succeed.
“In the same vein, I urge all those with the wherewithal to think of establishing industries, especially in the rural areas, to help create jobs for the youths. On our part as government, we will continue to provide the enabling environment and assistance to encourage all well-meaning investors.
“My beloved Imo people, Ndi Imo, I have just given you a synopsis of my vision and mission for the next four years, which should suffice for this occasion.
“Having said that, I want us to see the event of today as remarkable because it opens a new page in our history. That new page is the commencement of our determined march to economic growth and self sufficiency. It heralds the new dawn in our efforts to develop Imo State and make it one of the leading industrial states in Nigeria and indeed, West Africa. This is our vision and mission, and it is doable.
“In this regard, I am pleased to inform you that our shared prosperity flight which is taking us to the great Imo State of our dream, is now at cruising altitude. So, relax, unfasten your seat belts and enjoy the rest of the flight. An experienced and dependable captain is in charge.
“I will also like you to take this home from this ceremony today: By the time we are through with another four years, the institutional and infrastructural structures we would have put in place will make it a herculean task for any Pharaoh to take Imo State back to Egypt. Let me assure you that my second tenure shall be defined by an uncommon apostolic zeal and tenacious application of clinical efficiency in the execution of policies. The task is to make Imo State the industrial hub of the South East, Nigeria, and West Africa. It is one that our generation must accomplish, to the glory of God.
“Once again, I thank Mr President, and all the dignitaries who are here today for honouring us with their presence. thank you Ndimo for your love and uncommon solidarity. I invite you all to work with me to build a great Imo State that we shall all be proud of.
“Thank you and may God bless all of us.”
President Tinubu who congratulated Governor Uzodimma said it was a joy for him to be part of the swearing in ceremony which afforded him the opportunity “to witness a rekindling of hope and blessing of the seed of prosperity.”
The President said that the relative peace Imo people are enjoying today will be better, noting that the federal government will work together with the people to make it even better. “What we learn from this is for us to work together and pay attention to our internal security.”
Tinubu who said he was glad Imo State is part of a united country working hard to move it forward assured of his government’s readiness to bring substantial development in the areas of education, industrialisation, health care, training and employment.
Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev Lucius Ugorji offered the inauguration prayer for the Governor, the Deputy, Imo State, President Tinubu and Nigeria.
Senate President and his deputy, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Governors of Abia, Borno, Ebonyi, Cross River, Ekiti, Lagos, Rivers, Ogun, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, former Governor Rochas Okorocha, former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor Ikedi Ohakim, the Ooni of Ife, the Obi of Onitsha, the Etsu Nupe, the Chairman, Imo State Council of traditional rulers, Eze EC Okeke, Ministers, serving and former members of the National and State legislators, captains of industries among other dignitaries too numerous to mention attended the event.
Conference Of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and frontline civil society organisations (CSOs) under the aegis of the Coalition Of National Civil Society Organizations Against Inept Leaders, have sounded a note of caution against undermining the ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption against Betta Edu and Sadiya Umar-Farouq, embattled former and suspended ministers of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, now Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
In a statement signed by the CNPP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, and the National Secretary of the coalition of Nigeria civil society organizations, Alhaji Ali Abacha, they also called “for investigation of the Judges of the Court of Appeal who masterminded the miscarriage of justice in the legislative election appeals to determine if the Judges soiled their hands to stand justice on the head.”
While former minister Umar-Farouq is under investigation at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for over N37 billion corruption allegations, Betta Edu was recently suspended by President Tinubu after a week of deafening accusations of financial misconduct against her to the tune of N585 million.
The groups noted that they have “watched with kin interest how some CSOs have engaged in pro- and anti- investigation of corrupt leaders.”
Decrying what they called “the obvious move by interested civil society groups to undo each other in defence and against the ongoing investigation of the rot in the corruption allegations against public officials, a development that is capable of undermining the ongoing process.
“We, therefore, call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that justice is done and that anyone found wanting in the allegations of corruption in the Humanitarian Ministry is diligently prosecuted.
“We equally call for public probe of all Appeal of Court judges involved in the judgment that removed both elected governors and legislators in the 2023 general elections contrary to the recent judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
“The miscarriage of justice meted against validly elected National and State Assembly members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) in Plateau, Enugu, Abia and other states who have been unjustly removed from their legitimate seats by the Court of Appeal contrary to earlier decided and settled cases by the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
“While we await whatever remedy that is open for the victims of the Court of Appeal’s miscarriage of justice, if any, we call for immediate probe of all the affected judges to determine if they were induced financially or otherwise.
“An open investigation and adequate discipline of judges, who are found wanting, are necessary deterrence to bad eggs in the Nigerian judiciary”, they stated.
The much anticipated cabinet reshuffle in Ondo state will come up any moment from now, according to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The governor, who spoke on Monday through his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan in a radio programme in Akure, explained that swapping of the commissioners was necessary to ensure speeding up development in the state.
On his assumption of duty in December last year, following the demise of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, some aides including commissioner that worked with he late Governor resigned voluntarily citing personal reasons.
Some of those that are yet to resign are nursing governorship ambition which may lead to their resignation or possible sack later as the governor too may likely take a shot at the contest.
Speaking on the rumour of reshuffling the cabinet members, Aiyedatiwa said he was taking his time and would not rush to rejig the members of the State Executive Council (SEC).
“Mr governor will take his time to put his team together. He would not rush to do anything. He has a team that is already working to put the right team together.
“He is already meeting with stakeholders. And I can assure you that when the time is ripe, he will put the right team together.”
The governor again maintained that he was not disturbed nor distracted by unscrupulous politicians maligning his personality and credibility ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.
According to Aiyedatiwa, it’s election season in the state and a period for politicians to sell their cards to the electorates but the campaigns should be done with decorum and not to heat the political space.
He assured the people of the state that the present administration was committed to speeding up development in all spheres of sectors to enhance economic growth in the state.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that with the ongoing efforts to take the state to an enviable height, Ondo would soon be economically progressive with a lot of business investors trooping in the state.
He said he has been busy and having sleepless nights on how to ensure the state is flourishing with development, most especially with the continuation of projects embarked upon by his late principal, former governor Rotimi Akerdolu.
“The governor is ready to speed up the development in the state. He is not disturbed at all. Although, he has been having sleepless nights it is about the development of the state.
“He is very busy with how to develop the state and we owe that responsibility to the people of Ondo State by ensuring development and boasting our economy.”
The speculated reshuffling of the Cabinet by President Bola Tinubu Cabinet has been debunked by the Presidency which dismissed it as a figment of imagination from mischief makers.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale disclosed this in an interview with the National Television Authority, NTA, over the weekend.
Ngelale said, “It is only natural to drive such stories, particularly if there’s even a whisper that such a thing could occur.
“But I think it’s important that we not preempt the activities of the President. The President is fully aware of all factors related to what people are doing and not doing within his administration.
“He does have a special adviser on policy and coordination in the person of Hadiza Bala Usman, who is also monitoring the activities of the MDAs with respect to performance-related issues, and he has all of that information at any point in time”, he said.
Ngelale said a possible cabinet reshuffle by President Tinubu would have to wait until the ongoing investigations into the alleged fraud in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and its Social Investment Programmes have provided conclusive ends.
According to him, the Tinubu-led administration will not spare any individual found culpable.
Speculations have been rife that heads are set to roll in the Cabinet of the President with anyone found culpable of any misdemeanor to face the full wrath of the law, following alleged corrupt practices in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs as well as the suspension of the National Social Investment Programmes Agency’s (NSIPA) activities, following allegations of financial impropriety.
Reacting to the speculations, however, Ngelale said, “at this point, it is in the realm of speculation. What is not in the realm of speculation, however, is that the President has ordered a thorough investigation. And wherever that investigation takes him, he will act accordingly.
“I do think that the President would not make such a move until he has a clear idea of exactly what that investigation has unearthed and whether or not there are other officials of the government that he feels would need to be roped into such an exercise on the basis of whatever the findings of that investigation are”.
As regards the on-going probe, Ngelale said, “The President has given full instruction to the EFCC Chairman to conduct a thorough investigation.
The way the President would direct such an investigation is to say that nobody, no name, should be left out if they are found wanting in the situation. No sacred cows at all.
“Anywhere this investigation takes the EFCC and other investigating authorities. That is where the investigation must go and the President will take action accordingly.”
Speaking further, the Presidential spokesperson added that the President has “since made it clear to all members of his administration, within the Federal Executive Council and private meetings, that he will not tolerate any form of indiscipline corruption, dereliction of duty or any other form of incompetence.
“President Tinubu is going to let time go by. If he fully understands that somebody is not up to the task, he will fix the problem and fix it as quickly as possible,” he added.
Daniel Bwala, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chieftain and former Spokesperson to PDP Presidential Candidate at the 2023 Presidential Election, Atiku Abubakar, has revealed that the former Vice President was aware of his meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
Bwala made this disclosure in an interview with Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.
He said, “I informed Atiku Abubakar I was going to see the President. After I had seen the President, I informed him (Atiku) that I had just seen the President and he replied me that, ‘Thanks Daniel for notifying me’.”
Bwala also said his decision to now support President Tinubu does not mean he betrayed Atiku.
“It’s absolute nonsense for somebody to say because I said I will support President Bola Tinubu therefore I betrayed Atiku,” the lawyer said.
He described as absurd, criticisms trailing his sudden-found support for Tinubu whom he flayed during the 2023 politicking process.
Recall that in July 2022, Bwala, then an APC member, dumped the ruling party when Tinubu announced his running mate as ex-Borno governor, Kashim Shettima.
Bwala faulted Tinubu for his choice of a fallow Muslim as a running mate and quickly joined the campaign train of Atiku, a Muslim and ex-Vice President, who chose a Christian as running mate in the person of ex-Delta governor, Ifeanyi Okowa.
However, Bwala met with the President at the Aso Villa in Abuja last week and declared his unalloyed support for him.
Bwala has since attracted a scathing string of criticisms with many questioning his political ideology but the lawyer said “even ideology, you have the right to change ideology”.
