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“If President Buhari Asks Buni And I To Quit, We Quit, Power Play Is At Work” – Akpanudoedehe

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The Source
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Senator John Akpanudoedehe

By Gideon Njoku

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr John Akpandoedehe, says he and the Chairman, Mai Mala Buni, would quit from their respective offices the minute President Muhammadu Buhari asks them to do so.

Akpanudoedehe made  the statement while reacting to the news which made the rounds in the social media that he had quit as the Secretary of the Party.

A former Senator, he was appointed alongside  Buni, Governor of Yobe State and others to run the affairs of the Party, and organise a National Convention, on the sack of former National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole.

But for almost two years, Buni and his team have been unable to organise a Convention. The allegation is that he is deliberately stalling it because he wants to supervise the Presidential Primaries, to the anger of not a few APC stakeholders.

On Monday, March 7, 2023, the news that President Buhari has sacked Buni, and in his place, appointed the Governor of Niger State, Abubakar Bello, a member of Buni’s Committee, hit the Nation. It was said that Buhari aborted his earlier planned trip to the United Kingdom from Nairobi, Kenya for his medicals because he wanted to give the order to sack Buni.

Confusion hit the APC, and nobody knew what to believe. Akpanudoedehe issued a statement to deny the sack of Buni. What is obvious, however, is that there is crisis within the leadership of the APC.

On Monday, the National Secretariat was cased by Policemen. And, like a King, Governor Bello drove into the Secretariat, accompanied by praise singers who kept hailing him: “The Chair; the new Chairman.” He presided over  a meeting, and inaugurated the newly elected State Chairmen.

However, speaking to Reporters, Bello said he was only Acting as the Chairman, and had done so for sometime, because Buni had been out of the country, reportedly in Dubai for medicals.

But on Tuesday when the news of Akpanudoedehe’s resignation hit the street, the conclusion was that truly, Buhari has sacked the Committee.

However, Akpanudoedehe has debunked the news of his resignation saying he remained in office, and would resign only if Buhari  asks them to do so.

He said: ” I want to state that it is not true, I haven’t resigned. If I have resigned, you will see my resignation letter from me.

“Someone cannot say someone is dead while he is alive. I am not bigger than the Party. I am waiting for my National Chairman to come back.

“We have done so much for this Party. When we inherited it,  you will recall it ( the Party) was at its lowest ebb. We were able to cover some grounds, and registered 41million people. We have also been able to buy the Secretariat.

“This is not the first time we have seen power play. I am waiting for the Chairman. If we have directives from Mr President that we should resign, we are not bigger than the President, we would do so.”

Buni is still out of the country, and so is President Buhari.

DIG Egbunike, Slumps, Dies

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The Source
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DIG Egbunike, Slumps, Dies

By Gideon Njoku

The highest ranking, serving, Police Officer of Igbo extraction, Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG Joseph Obiajulu Egbunike is dead.

Egbunike, the DIG, Force Criminal Investigation Department, FCID, reportedly, slumped in his office on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, and died.

A brilliant and well read officers, as the DIG FCID, Egbunike was in charge of the Force’s highest Investigation and Prosecution Department.

He read Accountancy at the University of Nsukka, where he got a BSc. He went on to read law and possessed an LLB, BL, a Masters in International Law and Diplomacy, and a PhD in Criminology.

His most recent national assignment was the investigation of the suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abba Kyari, over his association with international internet fraudster, Hushpuppi, and a bribery allegation to the tune of about eight million Naira,

A native of Onitsha, Anambra State, Egbunike was born November 30, 1961.

With his sudden passing, the next most senior officer from the South-east will be appointed as a DIG since the office of the DIG is political. As a matter of policy, every zone of the Federation must have a DIG.

Bamishe Ayanwole’s Murder: Lagos Assembly Lawmakers Say Justice Must Be Done

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Obasa on Bamise Murder Case

By Akinwale Kasali

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Tuesday promised that the Legislative arm of the State Government must ensure justice in the case of the alleged murder of Bamise Ayanwole.

Obasa said this while addressing some protesters who stormed the House to urge the Lawmakers to act on the case of the victim.

The 22-year-old was reportedly killed inside a Bus Rapid Transit vehicle on her way from the Lekki area of the State to Oshodi a couple of days ago.

The protesters, who came to the Assembly with the immediate elder sister of the deceased, said it was painful that such an incident happened. They also called for more efforts by the Government to ensure the security of lives and property.

Obasa, who said he and his colleagues were very concerned about the incident, sympathised with the family and friends of the victim.

While urging Nigerians not to pre-empt the Police which is investigating the case, he said the House would continue to follow up to ensure justice is served appropriately.

“The erroneous belief that it would be swept under the carpet is unnecessary. The driver has been arrested and is in custody.

“We are watching and must ensure justice is done on the case. The Governor has spoken about it and I just want to appeal that we work together to get justice.

“We will do everything to make sure that justice is served. Justice must be served. And everybody in Lagos must be protected,” he told the protesters.

Earlier during plenary, the Speaker urged Nigeria, its citizens and leaders to use the opportunity of the International Women’s Day to address whatever is lacking in the push for equity for women.

Commending women for their resilience and importance, Obasa, however, expressed sadness that the women have become victims of heinous crimes.

“As a Government, we must look inward to see the areas that are beneficial to the women. Women have become victims of violence and other crimes. What have we done for the emancipation of our women? How much of our women have we lost during child birth?

“We must encourage our women to be successful and live better,” he said.

He charged all the committees of the House to work for the benefit of women in the State.

Sacked Governor Umahi Attacks Justice Ekwo; Says Judge Was On A Mission; Reports Him To NJC

By
Adesina Soyooye
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By Adesina Soyooye

An angry, worried and obviously embarrassed  Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State has descended on the Judge who sacked him and his Deputy from office.

The Honourable Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Monday, March 8, sacked Umahi and Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe from office for defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Justice Ekwo said that having jettisoned the PDP, both have, also, jettisoned the votes cast for them under the PDP. He ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to immediately receive PDP’s nominations to replace both men, or organise a fresh Governorship election for the State. He, also, ordered Umahi and Igwe to desist from parading themselves as Governor and Deputy Governor.

But a scandalised Umahi has dismissed the judgment  as rubbish, null and void. He said he would never obey it, that he remains the Governor,  and that what the  Judge delivered was a jungle judgment.

Then he descended on Justice Ekwo character. He said Ekwo’s judgment was purchased. He called the Judge a hatchet man. He said he had no powers to remove him, a sitting Governor from office because, as a sitting Governor, he has immunity.

He said he has forwarded a petition against Ekwo to the National Judicial Council, NJC, asking it to discipline the Judge. He, then,  tried to put the Judge on a collusion course with both the APC and the Federal Government.

Umahi: “We have heard the rumours before now that he was determined to give judgment against all known laws and the Constitution to embarrass the APC and the Federal Government.”

Umahi noted that previous judgments had been given in similar cases concerning a couple of Governors, using the most recent one -Zamfara State – as an example where the Court upheld the Governor.

Zamfara Governor, Bello Matallewa had, like Umahi, defected from the PDP to the APC.

Umahi, also, dismissed the sack of 17 members of the House of Assembly, including the Speaker, by Justice Ekwo, asking them to ignore the Judge and his judgment.

Umahi: “The Constitution stipulates that the only way whereby a Governor can vacate his seat is either by death, resignation or impeachment by the House of Assembly.

“There is no other provision that empowers a hatchet man to turn the Constitution upside down.

“I have listened to the judgement of Ekwo and it is very obvious that he was on a mission. He was making all efforts to upturn the rulings of the Appeal and Supreme courts on issues like this.

“We have heard the rumors before now that he was determined to give judgement against all known laws and the constitution to embarrass the APC and the Federal government.

“For me I do not feel worried but I feel so sorry for the Judiciary. The Executive may have problem, the Legislature may have problem, but the moment justice could be purchased, then we are in trouble in this country. And the ruling this afternoon is a clear evidence that this country is in trouble.

“And let me tell you that this same judge has over 10 cases against Ebonyi State Government with him and you can imagine what he is going to rule. We have petitioned him to NJC and we will follow it up to ensure that this man is brought to justice.

“I want you to disregard the judgement, it is null and void. There is a subsisting judgement in Ebonyi and Zamfara states. So we have chosen the one to obey, we will not obey his ruling, we will obey the ruling of a competent court of coordinate jurisdiction that says you cannot sue a Governor.

“The sections of the Constitution are very clear, no civil or criminal proceedings could be brought against a sitting Governor. This is not a Pre-election matter, this is not a Tribunal matter. So he has murdered justice in this country and he and his generation will be remembered for this jungle justice which has no leg to stand.

“I am still the Governor of Ebonyi state and he has no powers to remove me.”

Umahi said he would immediately appeal the judgment and boasted that the Court of Appeal will throw out Justice Ekwo’s judgment.

International Women’s Day: Jonathan Foundation Advocates Gender Equality, Inclusive Governance

By
The Source
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As  the world celebrates this year’s International Women’s Day , the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation( GJF), says  priority should be given to issues of gender equality and inclusive governance  in order to build a democratic, peaceful and sustainable country.

A statement by the Communications Officer of the Foundation , Wealth Dickson Ominabo, quoted Ann Iyonu , the Executive Director of GJF as saying that “Gender equality is not just about women’s  rights ,it is about justice , fairness , inclusive and accountable governance.”

The Foundation, therefore, calls on Government and policy makers to work towards addressing all structural biases against women in our society. This, the Foundation notes, will create safe spaces for women to contribute effectively to nation building .

The statement reads:

“On  International Women’s Day 2022, the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) celebrate the Nigerian women  and others across Africa for their contributions to peace , prosperity and sustainable development.

“This year’s theme : ‘Gender equality today for sustainable tomorrow’ is a call to action on all citizens, especially governments and policy makers to #breakthebias against women in our society.

“Gender equality is an important democratic right that is essential in building an inclusive society and addressing many of our challenges. Gender equality is not just about women’s  rights ,it is about justice , fairness , inclusive and accountable governance

“We therefore lend our voice to  those of other women calling for the prioritization of women’s rights in the ongoing constitutional amendment process in Nigeria.

“Breaking all structural bias against women will create a safe space for women and girls to contribute more effectively towards the advancement of our society. This is the path towards  securing a sustainable future for us and the upcoming generation.

“Happy International Women’s Day !”

Osinbajo Is National Treasure; Must Be Utilized – Group

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Yemi Osinbajo Organisation

By Akinwale Kasali

As the 2023 Presidential Election gathers momentum, with different aspirants showcasing interest in taking over affairs of the country from incumbent, President Muhammadu Buhari, the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo has been described as a national treasure that every Nigerian must be proud of, and who is worthy to be utilized in the quest to regenerate the nation.

For months, different Groups have been calling on the Vice President to indicate interest in vying for the nation’s top office.

On Tuesday, March 8, Osinbajo Grassroots Organization, OGO,  declared in Abuja, the Nation’s Capital that Osinbajo remains a national treasure.

In a statement signed by the Group’s National Convener , Sylvanus Foluso Ojo, on the occasion marking the 65th birthday of the Vice President, the Group stated that in view of his  intellect, leadership acumen  and humane disposition, Osinbajo truly deserves to be celebrated

“The Vice President has built for himself and this nation a legacy of patriotism, loyalty and unhindered connection with the Nigerian people. Even as a serving VP, Prof Osinbajo has warmed himself into the hearts of average Nigerians who have been touched one way or the other by his compassionate and inclusive leadership .

“Beyond politics, it has become essentially imperative to celebrate the man, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, whose deep conviction about the greatness, and destiny of the nation Nigeria and her people is unparalleled .

“Right before our very eyes Osinbajo has risen to an iconic status of a rare statesman, and a quintessential treasure that must be cherished and treasured by all Nigerians, regardless of political, ethnic or religious divides.”

“At 65, our belief is further reinforced in the knowledge, that God has preserved you for a time as this, to nurture continually the good seed of integrity, enterprise in service, loyalty to nation and principal, and delivering on impactful economic initiatives in the interest of all Nigerians.

“Our joy is further deepened in your laudable, robust and enviable life, one that the youthful and growing generation of Nigerians can build upon as foundation for hardwork, forthrightness, focus, discipline, contentment and empathy.

“We salute Your Excellency on this inspiring moment even as we pray for your continued good health, increased grace, divine life and undying passion for unquenchable service to fatherland at 65.

“We are indeed proud of you and we wish Your Excellency and your loving household a unique, lovely and blessed celebration.”

Breaking: Drama As Osun PDP Holds Parallel Primary Election

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0

By Akinwale Kasali

There is drama at the ongoing Osun State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,  Osun State, as the Wale Ojo faction of the PDP in the State is holding a parallel election.

The Sunday Bisi-led faction which has the support of the National Secretariat of the PDP and whose aspirant is Senator Ademola Adeleke is getting ready to start voting at Osogbo city stadium while those who belong to Dotun Babayemi’s camp are already preparing to start theirs at the WOCDIF Centre, Ring Road, Osogbo.

Party Chieftain of the PDP in the State are said to be on ground at the WOCDIF Centre and they include; former Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Deputy Governor, Erelu Olusola Obada, Chiefs Shuaib Oyedokun, Olu Alabi, Tajudeen Oladipo among others.

Those present at the Osogbo City Stadium venue of the Sunday Bisi-led faction include; Chief Ajeigbe, Prof. Wale Oladipo, Bunmi Jenyo, Clement Akanni, Alhaji Gani Olaoluwa, Diran Odeyemi and others.

Details Later…..

National Assembly Bows, Passes Gender Bills As NAWOJ Says Women’s Day Incomplete Without Bills

By
Ayodele Oni
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By Ayodele Oni

As a mark of honour for the womenfolk to mark this year’s International Women’s Day Celebrations, the House of Representatives has rescinded its decisions on three  constitution amendment bills, which centred on women.

The House had, previously, rejected the Bills after majority of its members voted against them.

Some women groups and organizations had, last week, laid seige on the gate of the National Assembly in Abuja to protest against the rejection of the Bills.

First Lady, Aisha Buhari,  and the of the Vice President’s wife, Dolapo Osinbajo,  had,  several times, while debate was ongoing on on the Bills, visited the Legislative House to drum support.

The affected bills are 35 percent Affirmative, Citizenship, and Indigeneship Bills.

The three Bills are gender- based which were voted against during the constitution amendment.

Also on Tuesday, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) congratulated Nigerian women on the occasion of the International Women’s Day.

NAWOJ said in a statement that “Though the celebration of the 2022 International Women’s Day would have been one of the best to be celebrated, by not just women in Nigeria, but development partners, as well as gender activists, if the hope of the constitution amendment on gender bills had not been dashed by the National Assembly.

“In fact, history would have been made by the 9th Assembly as the legislature that allowed the true definition of  democracy to take it roots in Nigeria, but members chose the path of exclusion and discriminatory agenda against Nigerian women and girls.

“The sad and unacceptable rejection of the five gender bills that speak to the issues against women, especially  discrimation and exclusion from involvement in governance and contribution to nation building, is not only shameful, retrogresive, but a huge tragedy in the development space of Nigeria and the eye of the global community .

The statement, signed by national President if NAWOJ, Ladi Bala insisted that “No nation that excludes more than 50 percent of a segment of its demography can develop as expected.

“It is therefore pertinent to appeal to members of the federal legislature to as a matter of urgency, necessity and in the interest of the spirit and letters of democracy to discard their earlier posture and allow for the Gender bills to be re-represented and passed into law.

“NAWOJ leadership also calls on all Nigerian women to rise and demand from their representatives the fulfilment of the social contract of effective representation they signed.

“It is equally instructive to note that the fight towards ensuring that Nigeria corrects the wrongs requires the support of patriotic men who believe in a better Nigeria.

“Until the Gender bills are reconsidered and passed into law, Nigeria cannot be seen or considered to be a full democratic nation. The time to stop Gender discrimination and biases is now.

“Attaining Gender Equality Today for a sustainable Tomorrow” which is the theme for the 2022 International Women’s Day, will remain an Illusion in Nigeria, except a pragmatic approach towards attaining and balancing Gender related issues in the country is adopted and respected by all.”

Federal Court Sacks 15 Ebonyi Lawmakers

By
Adesina Soyooye
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0
Court
The Law

By Adesina Soyooye

In one fell swoop, 15 Ebonyi State Lawmakers have been  sacked by an Abuja Federal High Court.

The Lawmakers, including, the Speaker, were sacked by the courageous Honourable Justice Inyang Ekwo.

By their sack, they share the same fate as the Governor of the State, Dave Umahi, and his Deputy, Kelechi Igwe, both of whom were sacked earlier in the day  by Ekwo.

The Honourable Judge declared their seats vacant for abandoning the Party under which they were elected into office for another party.

They had followed Umahi to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,  to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

In the landmark judgment, Ekwo on Tuesday, February 8, restrained them from further parading themselves as Lawmakers.

He held that having abandoned the Party under which they were elected, they are no longer legal occupiers of the seat.

The meaning is that in Ebonyi State, the three first citizens of the State have been sacked – on same day, by same Court.

Umahi Sacked As Governor Of Ebonyi State

By
Adesina Soyooye
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0

By Adesina Soyooye

Dave Umahi has been sacked as the Governor of Ebonyi State. Sacked along with him is his Deputy, Dr Kelechi Igwe.

In a ruling set to bring sanity to the polity, an Abuja Federal High Court on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, declared both Umahi and Igwe illegal occupiers of the Government House, Ebonyi State.

They were sacked based on their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, under which they were elected into office, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The Hon. Justice Inyang Ekwo in his landmark judgment said that the votes cast in the 2019 Governorship election belonged to the PDP, and could not be transferred to the APC. He held that the 393,042 votes Umahi and Igwe got in the March 9,  2019 election belonged to the PDP and could not legally be transferred to the APC. Having defected to the APC, the Judge insisted, both men not only jettisoned  the PDP, but the votes cast for the party.

He further added that going by the outcome of that election, the offices of the Governor and Deputy Governor belong to the PDP, not the APC.

Hon Justice Ekwo:

“There is no constitutional provision that made the ballot transferable from one party to the other.”

The Judge ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to immediately receive from the PDP, the names of its nominees to occupy the position, and asked Umahi and Igwe to immediately stop parading themselves as Governor and Deputy Governor.

Umahi had, inexplicably, defected to the APC, over what many saw as his vaulting ambition to run for the office of the President in 2023.

…More Details later.

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