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Ecobank Opens New Lekki Branch With 24hrs Digital Experience

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Bayo Bernard
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By Fola James

Ecobank Nigeria has assured that it’s poised to provide seemless,  world class  banking services  to its teeming customers  across the country. This was disclosed by the outgoing  Managing director of the Pan-African  bank, Patrick Akinwuntan while unveiling a state-of-the-art branch and digital experience centre strategically located at the heart of the highbrow Admiralty Way in Lekki Area of Lagos.

Akinwuntan said he new branch  has been specially equipped  to provide a-list services to high end customers through its dedicated Premier Lounge, provide the regular banking services to all its customers, as well as reach out to the youthful public within and around the corridor through the Digital Experience Centre.

According  to him, “For us as a bank, this new branch is part of our transformation efforts to satisfy our customers. The branch comes with full complement of banking services; 24/7 Digital Experience Centre and Dedicated Premier Lounge. It promises to offer customers the latest in banking technology. I assure our customers that Ecobank is well-positioned to meet and surpass their expectations through its seamless and world-class digital products and services, as we have put in place initiatives that enables us serve the customer better, ensuring their satisfaction at every interaction with us”.

Ecobank Nigeria is a full-service bank providing wholesale, retail, investment and transaction banking services and products to governments, financial institutions, multinationals, international organizations, medium, small and micro businesses and individuals. It is a major player in the distribution of financial services in Nigeria, leveraging digital platforms including Ecobank Mobile App and USSD *326#, Ecobank Online, Ecobank OmniPlus, Ecobank Omnilite, EcobankPay, Ecobank RapidTransfer, ATMs, POSs and an extensive distribution network of over 250 branches and about 30,000 agency banking locations.

Ecobank Nigeria Ltd. is a subsidiary of the Ecobank Group, the leading pan-African banking group with operations in 33 African countries and an international presence in four locations (London, Paris, Beijing and Dubai)

2023: Tinubu Says He Will Run For Presidency

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The Source
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Bola Tinubu
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

By Gideon Njoku

Finally, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Tinubu has let the cat out of the bag. He has declared, literally, that he would run for the office of the President in 2023.

For over one year, speculations have been very strong that the former two-time Governor of Lagos State will run in 2023.

He has been exploring and consulting. Different political groups and organisations had been set up to root for him. They have been in the field, campaigning. Everybody knew he was behind them. He never said so. But he, also, did not distance himself from them. He kept mum, and let them do the work. During festivals, they package bags of rice to distribute, with Tinubu’s photograph on them. They have been touring different States, meeting those that they think matter, including Traditional Rulers, many of whom already endorsed him as the man for 2023, especially, those from the South-west.

The strongest inkling that Tinubu’s running in 2023 is a done deal was when the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, launched a political group to promote Tinubu’s aspiration. He called it the South-west Agenda. That was a day before Tinubu’s return from months  of medical trip abroad – the Unted Kingdom.

While he was there, his London residence was a Mecca of sorts for politicians in Nigeria. His first high profile visitor was President Muhammadu Buhari who was on his own medical trip to the UK same time. But he made out time to visit the Asiwaju of Lagos.

Mr President’s visit opened the flood gate for visitors. National Assembly members. House of Assembly members Governors. Local Government Chairmen.

During the visit of the Northern Caucus of the House of Representatives to him, led by the Deputy Speaker, one of them called Tinubu Mr President. “See you soon, Mr President, he quipped. Tinubu lapped it up.

On his return to Nigeria, nothing changed. Both his Ikoyi and Abuja homes have remained a Mecca of sorts. Politicians of all shades, including serving Ministers, even Afenifere, led by Tinubu’s strong critic, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, trooped to his homes to welcome him.

He has been living it up as a President-in-waiting. And he has been consulting too. He has embarked on high profile visits of politicians. After a visit to the Kano petrel, Tanko Yakasai, in Abuja, the old man let it be known that Tinubu sought his support for his Presidential aspiration, and he gave him. He said he would support Tinubu in 2023.

But on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, Tinubu gave the most hint that he would run for the office of the President in 2023.

Speaking after a closed door meeting with members of one of the groups rooting for him – Northern Alliance Committee – Tinubu declared that he would not turn down the calls by his teeming supporters to run for the Presidential seat. Even though he said he was still consulting, and would consult widely, he let on, when asked if he would heed the clamour of those Nigerians asking him to run.

“I am not going to turn them down. But I will still effectively and widely consult. I will, particularly, brainstorm with my friends and find a date to come out and tell Nigerians,” he quipped.

The Minister for works, Babatunde Fashola, a two-time Lagos State Governor, who succeeded Tinubu had, a couple of weeks ago, said it was his understanding that Tinubu would speak on his ambition in January, 2022.

That date is only about three weeks away. And Tinubu is warming up for the big day.

Osinbajo Commends Buhari, Uzodimma For Attracting MSME Clinic To Imo

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The Source
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Yemi Osinbajo with Hope Uzodinma in Imo State

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, on Tuesday, December 14, commended President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor Hope Uzodimma for their efforts in attracting the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Clinic to Imo State.

The National MSME Clinic, an initiative of the Office of the Vice President, has  successfully been commissioned in Owerri  by  Prof. Osibanjo in collaboration with the Imo State Government.

Performing the ceremony at the Ahiajoku Convention Centre in Owerri, the Imo State Capital, Prof. Osibanjo said that the clinic entails Government providing various equipment,  machines, types of trade facilities among others that are usually expensive to procure by those involved in small businesses because of high cost of such machines.

“What Government does is to invest in buying the equipment, provide spaces and facilities in that location of the clusters for the trade or businesses and or where there are many people who are engaged in a particular type of business the Government will help them to access the use of such facilities.”

He said the facility is critical because “the location of the facility by the side of Amakohia market is important because it is within the metropolis and also along the famous Orlu/Owerri road which is the commercial nerve centre of Owerri.”

Prof. Osibanjo told his audience that “the facilities are well equipped and are expected to be used by those who are involved in the production of various garment wears and it is meant to enable them to produce end-to-end.”

The commissioned garment facility  comprised about 200 world class fully automated equipment that can provide services for about 350 small businesses daily.

“To Owerri metropolis and its environs, the facility will be used to carry out several tailoring activities including straight sewing, weaving, embroidery, monograph and monogram which particularly is very important in the designing of T-shirts and caps  for several thousands in one day.”

The Vice President thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for making the MSME a priority in his administration, by “realising that they are the engine room to economic growth, national income and job creation for the country.”

In the same vein, he commended the Governor Uzodimma for his commitment in attracting the facility to Imo State, emphasizing that the facility is in collaboration between the Federal and State Government.  “So the State is expected to work jointly with the Federal Government in other to benefit the people of the State.”

He called on the people to support the State Government and Federal Government to achieve their laudable objectives and avoid saboteur.

“Nigeria is our land, we have no other land to call our own.  We must never allow this land to become unruly and ungovernable, we must do our best to ensure peace, and this is the only way to eat the bountiful gift of this land.”

In his address,  Governor Uzodimma described the MSME facility as a salutary signpost of the Shared Prosperity Agenda of his administration and thanked President Mohammadu Buhari and his team for the creative enterprise expressed in the MSME scheme.

He described the project as a “testament of the Federal Government commitment to the development of Imo State.”

“The cardinal objective of the facility is the empowerment of our young men and women and total eradication of poverty in Imo State,”  he said and thanked again  the President and the Vice President for the attention that they have always given to Imo State which he described as “the industrial hub of the South East.”

He  reiterated the several efforts his administration has made towards the revival and recovery of moribund industries which include Adapalm expected to offer employment to 120,000 youths and recovery of Standard Shoe Company targeted at employing 10,000 youths  when fully functional.

The Governor pleaded with the Vice President to replicate what he has done with the MSME on the Shoe Industry so that “the industry which is begging for help will be assisted with the necessary equipment for an immediate take off.”

The Governor agreed with Prof Osinbajo  that the MSME facility is a “significant effort to reduce unemployment and poverty in our land, engage our youths in productive ventures and make crime unattractive to them.”

On facilities available at the clinic, the Governor noted that there is 24-hour electricity supply to ensure uninterrupted power and efficient productivity.

He charged the beneficiary to move in with their skills as “their destiny is in their hands,” insisting that “restiveness is a result of lack of job and unemployment.”

Governor Uzodimma  passionately appealed to the Vice President to use his good offices to establish one of the Industrial Training Fund Vocational Centres in Imo State to “help alleviate the problems of those who cannot gain admission into the University.”

He used the opportunity to invite investors to come to Imo State and invest as his government has developed special programmes to facilitate and encourage external investments in the State. They include infancy status that allows for tax holidays and other logistics as well as provision of power by using gas through pipeline to the industrial hub.

He aslo assured that insecurity has been brought to relative management and that his administration will guarantee provision of security to the investors.

To the Igbo youths, Governor Uzodimma  enjoined them not to hesitate to buy into all the available skills of the Federal and State Governments that can better their lives. “They should not allow themselves to be used by the opposition for nefarious activities, they should shun drug abuse, criminality, violence but in all make the fear of God their guide.”

Earlier in her welcome address the Minister of State, Industry, Trade and Investment Amb. Mariam Katagum thanked Mr. President, the Vice President and the Governor of Imo State for providing the incentives and conducive environment that enabled the successful commissioning of the facilities in Imo State.

She explained that the project is to reposition the Commerce, Trade and Investment sector for efficiency and growth.

“The programme is distinct from the norm as it aims at institutionalizing a culture of response and supportive services that improve ease of doing business by entrepreneurs.”

She reinforced the fact that the decision to develop the Owerri fashion and design shared facility is “because of its cosmopolitan nature and geographical proximity bothered by two key commercial centres of Orlu and Owerri.”

She emphasized that the programme is developed to help boost local productivity of vulnerable MSMEs by lowering production cost.

The event was well attended by top government officials including the Chairmen of the 27 LGAs of Imo State,  party faithful, the youths, women, traditional rulers among others.

Imo: Security Operatives Clear Gunmen In Orsu; Corpses Of Victims Litter; Uzodimma Applauds

By
The Source
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Hope Uzodimma

Not a few people in Imo State, especially, in the Orsu area, described it as both a Christmas and New Year gift. Even some said it was a birthday gift to Governor Hope Uzodimma who celebrated his 63rd birthday on December 12.

In one fell swoop, Security Operatives in Imo State, cleared gunmen and kidnappers who have been terrorising Orsu Local Government Area.

In a well planned operation, they raided them in their hideouts. Guns boomed. Fear reigned. But by the time both parties were through, the suspected criminals were given a bloody nose.

Many were killed, and about 30 of them arrested in the operation carried out by a joint Security team.  The operation, this magazine gathered, “stretched” from Orsu to LGA to Uli, a community in Ihiala, Anambra State, popular for hosting the Biafran airport during the civil war.

Just like residents of the area, Governor Uzodimma is, at once, full of excitement and applause.

In a statement on his behalf by his Media Adviser/Chief Press Secretary, Oguwike Nwachuku,  the Governor applauded the Security Operatives operating in Imo State  for their efforts in the recent operation that led to the arrest of the criminal elements believed to be terrorising Orsu local government areas of Imo State

Members of the Joint Security Taskforce operatives comprised of the Directorate of State Security, the Army, Police, Navy and the Civil Defence Corps.

During the operation, on Monday, December 14, they succeeded in bursting the devious criminal gang that has held Orsu Local Government Area and particularly, the people of Nkwerre-Uda community in Orsu Ihite-Ukwa village hostage for a long time without challenge.

The operation revealed horrifying sites of pits filled with decomposing human bodies, decapitated human heads, charred bodies of human beings, cannibalism, shrines and other unwholesome activities and reprehensible behaviours of bandits and criminals at the villages of Nkwerre-Uda in Orsu Ihitte-Ukwa Community of Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State and Umuezeala Lilu Community in Anambra State.

Journalists who went round the gory scene of the heinous crime in what is obviously the camp of the bandits at Orsu Ihitte Ukwa that shares boundry with Umuezala-Lilu in Anambra State came face to face with scores of decomposing and roasted corpses of human beings, some of which appeared to have been partially consumed and some parts left in the shrines and pits.

The leader of the team and the Commander of the DSS said they were at the camp based on intelligence that bandits had turned the place to a haven for kidnapping and all sorts of crimes.

He said: “At about 1.00 am, on Monday morning, a joint security team comprising the Military, Police and the DSS stormed the camp in Uda in Imo State and Lilu community in Anambra State, and they noticed that the community has been deserted and the hoodlums have carved out a part of the land for themselves, a brand of insurgency.

“As a result of the raid, the security agencies were able to rescue HRH Eze Acho Ndukwe of Amagu Ihube in Okigwe LGA, who was abducted some days back.

“They discovered a lot of decapitated human bodies and surprisingly they discovered that the criminals were practicing cannibalism as they roasted human flesh, which was actually an eyesore.

“In addition they recovered vehicles, saw a lot of dead bodies, as their stock in trade was kidnap, kill, behead some, and roast.

“Expectedly, the hoodlums engaged them in fierce gun duel where some of them where neutralised without fatalities recorded on the side of the security team.”

The team leader said that Governor Uzodimma had asked them “to sustain the momentum, return stability and normalcy in the area to achieve the target of ensuring the people come home and enjoy the Christmas.”

Receiving the team on arrival at the DSS office in Owerri, the State capital, Governor Uzodimma thanked God for the successes recorded, insisting that “it is only by the Grace of God who hears the fervent prayers of his people that the success was achieved.”

He added that he has been vindicated when he said that the spate of insecurity in the State is contrived, sponsored and masterminded by disgruntled politicians who have sworn to make the State ungovernable for him.

He commended the Security Agencies for the operation, saying that ‘’it has been a thing of worry as Orsu, a whole Local Government Area has been held hostage for a long time.”

He thanked the security agencies and promised to continue to support them.

He described the hoodlums as “ordinary criminals who have no future, marauding as bandits” and promised that “the long arms of the law will surely take its course on them.” He further assured that government will march them headlong, describing banditry as a “jungle business.”

Expressing gratitude to God and the Security agencies for saving his life from the hands of kidnappers, Eze Acho Ndukwe described the role played by the security operatives following the directive of the Governor as “wonderful show of power unprecedented in his life time.”

Akande, A Known Liar; Sold Out Yoruba To Buhari – Ayo Adebanjo

By
The Source
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0

By Gideon Njoku

Afenifere Leader, Ayo Adebanjo, has said that he has always known Chief Bisi Akande, the foundation Interim Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as a liar. He called Akande a pathological liar.

Adebanjo was reacting to the pot-shots thrown at him by Akande in his autobiography, “My Participation”, which was presented a few days ago in Lagos before a high profile audience, including President Muhammadu Buhari.

Akande, among other things, had alleged that Adebanjo and others, including Chief Olu Falae, had attended the National Conference organised by the Goodluck Jonathan Government, for monetary gains, instead of allowing younger people of Yoruba stock to attend the Conference.

In an interview with Arise Television on Tuesday, Adebanjo dismissed Akande, a former Osun State, as an apron string to Bola Tinubu, another APC chieftain. He also called him a political neophyte, too junior to him, whose Governorship papers he signed, and who is not worth any response from him, Adebanjo.

“He (Bisi Akande) is too junior to me to be commenting on political matters. He is a political neophyte. He is already known to me as a pathological liar. His colleague, Akinfenwa, in his book said that is who he is. And those of us who know him also know. He is just an apron string of Tinubu.

“He is too junior for me to be commenting on what he said. I signed his papers to be governor. And the condition we gave for him to become governor was that of sovereign national conference for the restructuring of the country back to federalism. That was the condition he was elected in 1999 and he reneged on that.

“We call all of them – Bola Tinubu, Segun Osoba to warn when they reneged. They have sold out the Yoruba race to Muhammadu Buhari all because they want Tinubu to be president. That is not my business.

“But telling lies is the one I don’t know and I don’t know how a man like Akande who claims that we all come from the root of Obafemi Awolowo can be taking pride in his participation in the government of one, Buhari, who they know is a disaster when all those who supported him initially are now regretting that they supported him.

“There is no sensible man who will come out now and say he is proud of Buhari. It shows the type of character he is. So, he is too junior for me to be commenting on what he said.”

Adebanjo is not the only one who has denounced some of the contents in Akande’s book. A group of Buhari supporters faulted Akande’s assertion that President Buhari had offered Tinubu the position of Vice President, but reneged on his promise and withdrew the offer.

They said that Buhari only promised to partner with him, and accused Akande of trying to whip up sentiments  aimed at blackmailing Buhari to back Tinubu’s 2023 Presidential aspiration.

But, according to the group, it will not work.”

There Is A Plot To Cause Breakdown of Law, And Destabilize Nigeria – DSS

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The Source
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The Department of State Services, DSS, says there is a plot to cause a breakdown of law and destabilise Nigeria.

The Service, at a Press Conference addressed by its Public Relations Officer, Dr Peter Afunanya, on Tuesday, December 14, at its Headquarters in Abuja, said some people are trying to exploit the security situation in the country to destabilise it.

The DSS, however, warned such people of the consequences of politicising  the situation.

Afunanya: “The Service has observed that some persons who are desperately seeking for power use wrong and skewed narratives to not only mislead citizens but overheat the polity. Already, they are exploiting and politicising the issue of insecurity in parts of the country for pecuniary and other selfish reasons. Many simply want to use the situation to cause divisions among citizens, seek cheap popularity and/or present the country as ungovernable.”

The Service, also, asked opinion leaders – the Clergy, religious and traditional rulers “to guard their utterances and avoid inciting pronouncements.”

Afunanya also touched on other issues on the state of the Nation as it concerns security.

Following is the full text of the Press Conference.

PRESS BRIEFING BY THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE SERVICES (DSS) HELD AT ITS NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA, ON TUESDAY, 14TH DECEMBER, 2021

Gentlemen of the Press

I bring you warm compliments of the Director General, State Services (DGSS), Alhaji Yusuf Magaji BICHI, fwc.

  1. The importance of this Press briefing is to partner with you to inform the public to be mindful of groups and individuals desirous of causing a breakdown of law and order in the country. This is more so that the Service has observed that some persons who are desperately seeking for power use wrong and skewed narratives to not only mislead citizens but overheat the polity. Already, they are exploiting and politicising the issue of insecurity in parts of the country for pecuniary and other selfish reasons. Many simply want to use the situation to cause divisions among citizens, seek cheap popularity and/or present the country as ungovernable.
  2. The Service therefore warns that those who are involved in these should desist from such destabilising acts. It also enjoins politicians to play by the rule and avoid statements or activities capable of inflaming the fires of division and violence prior to 2023 elections. Opinion moulders like the clergy, religious and traditional rulers are also to guard their utterances and avoid inciting pronouncements.
  3. In a related development, it is common knowledge that criminal elements will heighten their inglorious activities before, during and after the festive periods. Therefore, religious and community leaders, hoteliers and operators of markets, parks, recreational and relaxation centres are to be at alert and watch strange movements and activities around their facilities. Such facilities include places of worship, palaces, markets, schools and other public buildings. Owners and operators of these public spaces and their patrons should endeavour to isolate and report suspected rogues to security agencies for prompt response. Consequently, the Service’s interactive website and complaint lines will remain active and available to the public. Its formations at the State and local Government levels will be open 24 hours of the day. This is in line with the Service’s commitment and support to the populace.
  4. As schools vacate and students return home for holidays, there is likelihood that subversive gangs will target them for recruitment for undesirable intents. These may include but not limited to financial crimes, armed robbery, civil disobedience and violent protests, substance abuse, banditry and kidnapping. In this respect, parents and guardians are advised to be watchful of their children and wards and ensure that they do not engage in unlawful acts. Aside students, recessing members of National Assembly/State Houses of Assembly and other public/private sector workers on vacation may be predisposed to threats of various degrees. This also applies to Nigerians who may travel from within and outside the country to join their loved ones for the celebrations.
  5. These individuals are susceptible to kidnapping, hijack, assassinations, armed robbery and political manipulations. They are advised to be security conscious in order not to fall victims of these attacks and destructive political maneuvers. Let me reiterate at this juncture that those who sponsor kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, insurgency and all kinds of attacks on security agents, civilians and vulnerable populations should have a rethink. These persons, whether in the North or South, know themselves. There is no doubt that they have crossed the lines and it is now time to crush them.
  6. On IPOB and the alleged ill-treatment of its detained leader, the Service has, without any fear of contradiction, applied restraint in making public statements over the matter. The reason is simply because it avoids joining issues especially over a matter that is sub-judice. But for the sake of transparency and democratic accountability, the Service has decided to make some clarifications.
  7. It (the Service) denies all the inciting allegations by IPOB and states that:
  8. Nnamdi Kanu is not, in any way, maltreated in custody. Accusations of maltreatment negate the Service’s Standard Operation Procedure on the implementation of rights of a suspect;
  9. Nnamdi Kanu enjoys full luxury in the holding facility incomparable to any of its type anywhere in the country. He is accorded full rights and privileges. He is never denied his right of worship or freedom from his select religious practice.

iii. Adequate attention is paid to Kanu’s health. He has unhindered access to the best medical care and doctors. Kanu, himself, has confirmed to his visitors that the Service has never, in any way, maltreated him. He even confirmed this to the quartet of Senators Ike Ekweremadu and Enyinnaya Abaribe; Bishop Sunday Onuoha of the Methodist Church, Nigeria and Co-Chair, Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace and Ambassador Okechukwu Emuchay, MFR, Secretary-General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who saw him on Wednesday, 8th December, 2021.

  1. The story of Kanu being starved is fallacious. He could not have been starved as he enjoys meals of his choice. That he is not allowed change of clothing is also false. He is regularly allowed change of clothing as against what is presented to the public by IPOB propagandists. Assuming he is being maltreated, how come his visitors told him he was looking well? All the allegations of violation of his rights as a suspect, victimization and starvation among others are not true.
  2. It is unfortunate that some elements have decided to use outright misinformation to represent the state of affairs. Those who make these false stories do so to attract undue attention for the singular purpose of achieving a desired end. Rather than focus on how he should get justice, Kanu’s legal team and some mischievous elements among them have chosen to use fake news to mislead the public. While the Court in its wisdom ordered that Kanu be remanded in the safer DSS Custody, some of his legal representatives, for reasons best known to them, preferred Kuje Prison and have failed to explain the rationale for such choice.
  3. It may interest the public to note that a particular lawyer among Kanu’s Team is feasting on the matter such that one can conclude that his interest is beyond getting justice for his client. Be that as it may, the Court has the final say on the matter.
  4. Instructively, the media is reminded of its duty in national security. As influencers, media practitioners are called upon to use their platforms to pursue peaceful coexistence. They must commit themselves to the unity of the country and shun misinformation, fake news, hate speech and such other misleading narratives. Journalists, while discharging their constitutional roles, are enjoined to be objective, conflict-sensitive and patriotic in their reportage.
  5. Overall, citizens and residents are advised to cooperate with security and law enforcement agencies for lasting peace in the country. They should be wary of efforts designed from within and outside the shores of the country to misdirect or use them to undermine public order. Therefore, they should exercise caution in the way and manner they may conduct their affairs during the festivities and beyond. On its part, the Service will continue to collaborate with other sister agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure that all law abiding citizens and residents pursue their legitimate businesses without hindrances.
  6. While it has become expedient to issue these warnings and advisories, the Service maintains that it will not hesitate to deal, in accordance with the law, with those who may wish to test its resolve in ensuring internal security and national stability before, during and after the yuletide. For those that wish to, they must note that nemesis and the long hands of the law will definitely catch up with them. For emphasis, no one, no matter how highly placed, will be allowed to take laws into his or her hands.
  7. Finally, the DG, Management and Staff of the DSS appreciate everyone who has supported the Service in its effort to ensure peace and security in the country. Let us remember that security is the responsibility of everyone. Let us support security agencies to achieve the desired peace for our country. We wish every one of you and indeed all Nigerians a hitch free yuletide season. As we look forward to a new year, we wish you a prosperous 2022.

Thank you.

PN Afunanya, Ph.D, fsi

Public Relations Officer

Department of State Services

National Headquarters, Abuja

Akeredolu, Leads Osun Counterpart To Commission Road In Ekiti

By
Ayodele Oni
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Akeredolu Commissions Raod in Osun State

By Ayodele Oni

Two South West Governors, Rotimi Akeredolu, Ondo and Gboyega Oyetola, Osun as well as their deputies joined Ekiti state Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi on Tuesday to commission a 30 kilometer road rehabilitated by the administration.

The road project, Agbado-Ode- Isinbode-Omuo-Ekiti was part of the strides by the administration to open up rural area of Ekiti state and served as a link road to Abuja as well as check Kidnappings.

Commissioning the road, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu commended, who is chairman, Southern Governors Forum commended the Ekiti State Governor and Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, for the successful completion of the project which he described as impactful.

Mr Akeredolu pointed out that the impressive infrastructural development being witnessed across the length and breadth of Ekiti State, in spite of manifest downturn in the economic fortunes of the country, is the result of a carefully conceived and effectively implemented policies and programmes.

Describing the project as strategic to real development, Governor Akeredolu said very important milestones have been covered and veritable templates of purposeful governance laid for any successor desirous of development.

The Governor stated that only a person with foresight and knowledge would appreciate the connection between road construction and economic activities.

Governor Akeredolu explained that there could be no effective rural integration system, if there is no good road network, adding that infrastructural development is crucial to the enhancement of the conditions of living in the communities.

According to him, “Agriculture-Extension services, agro-allied businesses can only become effective and impactful with the completion of projects, such as this one, the subject of our gathering

“I am made to understand that this road stretches through several farming communities. It also serves as a transit route, into and out of the State, travel time has been reduced by over two hours.

“In addition, this road will service some strategic assets of the State. Economic activities along this corridor will improve phenomenally. The living conditions of the people will witness significant impact. Motorists will heave deep sigh of relief. The boost is tremendous and exponential.”

The Governor, who said the destiny of Ondo and Ekiti States is intertwined, noted that the two states have had a long history of shared heritage and beneficial collaborations.

“I congratulate my brother, JKF, and his Rescuing Mission Team for making it possible for us to witness history. The people of Ekiti State, especially those whose habitation falls within this axis, must be happy for the completion of this impactful project, among several others which have been commissioned for the benefit of the people in the last three years of peaceful, purposeful and significantly impactful service.

“I recall, with great satisfaction, our struggle to emplace this people-oriented Government. Our determination to redirect this land of the just and brave to the path of decency has borne bountiful dividends.

“Very important milestones have been covered and veritable templates of purposeful governance laid for any successor, desirous of development. This should be expected in a State led with keen intellection.

“The completion and commissioning of this road project, devoid of loquacious grandstanding, is evidence that the man directing the affairs of the State is determined to bring to bear quality difference in the lives of the people.

“It is not only a promise kept. It also, and more importantly, confirms good judgement on the part of the good people of Ekiti State in re-electing this intellectual in 2018.

“I have had close working relationship with the Dr. Kayode Fayemi, at the Governor’s Forum, both nationally and at our Region, the South West. He is the current Chairman of the Forum at the national level.

“I confirm that he has led the Forum with uncharacteristic candour, diligence, focus and huge sense of inclusiveness. I commend him, most enthusiastically, for his commitment to the strategic and comprehensive approach to infrastructural development of Ekiti State. He has proved that it is possible to achieve so much with minimum resources.

The Ondo State Governor enjoined the immediate communities benefitting from the project to take ownership and protect it keenly, stating that they must ensure that it is not subjected to abuse or misuse in any form for enduring benefit.

Nnamdi Kanu’s Legal Team Lying About Starvation, Change Of Clothes, Religious Practice – DSS

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The Source
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DSS

By Gideon Njoku

The Department of State Services, DSS, has accused the Legal Team of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, of deliberate mischief, lying and misinformation over the condition of Kanu, who is in its custody.

Not known for addressing Press Conferences, seeking publicity, or publicly joining issues with anybody especially, since the tenure of its Director General,  Yusuf Magaji Bichi, the DSS, on Tuesday, December 14, broke that “rule”.

Kanu, on the orders of a Federal High Court, Abuja, was kept in the custody of the DSS, pending the end of his prosecution. He is being prosecuted by the Federal Government on sundry issues including treason and terrorism.

A couple of weeks ago, his Legal team issued a statement to the effect that Kanu is being starved in the custody of the DSS; Is not allowed change of clothes; Is, also, not allowed to practice his religion.

But addressing a Press Conference at the Service’s Headquarters, Abuja, Dr Peter Afunanya, its Public Relations Officer, said nothing could be further from the truth.

Afunanya revealed that Kanu  is not only allowed his choice of meals, change of clothes, but accorded full rights and privileges. He also revealed that Kanu, himself, confirmed to Senators Ike Ekweremadu and Enyinnaya Abaribe, as well as Bishop Sunday Onuoha and Ambassador Okechukwu Emuchay, who visited him on December 8, 2021, that he was not being maltreated in any way.

Afunanya: “The story of Kanu being starved is fallacious. He could not have been starved as he enjoys meals of his choice. That he is not allowed change of clothes is also false. He is regularly allowed change of clothing as against what is presented to the public by IPOB propagandists.”

Accusing Kanu’s Legal team of mischief, he said: “It is unfortunate that some elements have decided to use outright misinformation to represent the state of affairs. Those who make these false stories do so to attract undue attention for the singular purpose of achieving a desired end. Rather than focus on how he should get justice, Kanu’s legal team and some mischievous elements among them have chosen to use fake news to mislead the public.”

The DSS, also accused a member of Kanu’s legal team of having an interest beyond getting justice for his client. Afunanya: ” It may interest the public to note that a particular lawyer among Kanu’s Team is feasting on the matter such that one can conclude that his interest is beyond getting justice for his client.”

Following is the Service’s reaction to the allegations of mistreatment of Kanu made by his Legal team.

“On IPOB and the alleged ill-treatment of its detained leader, the Service has, without any fear of contradiction, applied restraint in making public statements over the matter.

“The reason is simply because it avoids joining issues especially over a matter that is sub-judice. But for the sake of transparency and democratic accountability, the Service has decided to make some clarifications.

“It (the Service) denies all the inciting allegations by IPOB and states that:

*i. Nnamdi Kanu is not, in any way, maltreated in custody. Accusations of maltreatment negate the Service’s Standard Operation Procedure on the implementation of rights of a suspect;

*ii. Nnamdi Kanu enjoys full luxury in the holding facility incomparable to any of its type anywhere in the country. He is accorded full rights and privileges. He is never denied his right of worship or freedom from his select religious practice.

*iii. Adequate attention is paid to Kanu’s health. He has unhindered access to the best medical care and doctors. Kanu, himself, has confirmed to his visitors that the Service has never, in any way, maltreated him. He even confirmed this to the quartet of Senators Ike Ekweremadu and Enyinnaya Abaribe; Bishop Sunday Onuoha of the Methodist Church, Nigeria and Co-Chair, Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace and Ambassador Okechukwu Emuchay, MFR, Secretary-General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who saw him on Wednesday, 8th December, 2021.

*iv. The story of Kanu being starved is fallacious. He could not have been starved as he enjoys meals of his choice. That he is not allowed change of clothing is also false. He is regularly allowed change of clothing as against what is presented to the public by IPOB propagandists. Assuming he is being maltreated, how come his visitors told him he was looking well? All the allegations of violation of his rights as a suspect, victimization and starvation among others are not true.

*v. It is unfortunate that some elements have decided to use outright misinformation to represent the state of affairs. Those who make these false stories do so to attract undue attention for the singular purpose of achieving a desired end. Rather than focus on how he should get justice, Kanu’s legal team and some mischievous elements among them have chosen to use fake news to mislead the public. While the Court in its wisdom ordered that Kanu be remanded in the safer DSS Custody, some of his legal representatives, for reasons best known to them, preferred Kuje Prison and have failed to explain the rationale for such choice.

*vi. It may interest the public to note that a particular lawyer among Kanu’s Team is feasting on the matter such that one can conclude that his interest is beyond getting justice for his client. Be that as it may, the Court has the final say on the matter.”

Nigeria vs UAE: UAE Blinks, Concedes Seven Slots to Air Peace

By
Uche Mbah
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By Uche Mbah

In an apparent move to avert a messy diplomatic row, the United Arab Emirate, UAE, has conceded seven slots to Air Peace, the Airline that carries Nigerian imprimatur to the far east country.

It will be recalled that UAE only allowed one weekly flight to Sharjah, a major city of the Emirate,  while Emirates Airline  is enjoying seven days a week flight to Nigeria.

Air Peace had even requested to fly to Dubai directly but was refused, on the ground that there is no vacant slot.

Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, then, in retaliation, announced that Emirates’ entry into Nigeria has been reduced to one. In a fit of anger, Emirates withdrew its services from Nigeria.

Apart from that, they used their diplomatic contacts to instruct all foreign airlines to stop carrying transit passengers to Dubai as long as they present a Nigerian passport.

But there appears to be no official circular to this effect.

It was believed that the move was to target high seasonal shopping traffic to Dubai by Nigerians shopping for Yuletide-a loss incurred both ways, for Nigeria is said to contribute a higher percentage of capital inflow to Dubai.

But this magazine learned that an official letter to the Ministry of Aviation and Air Peace from UAE yesterday conceded seven entries to Air Peace a week, one entry a day. Besides, they allowed all entries to Dubai instead of Sharjah.

Curiously, this Magazine learned, no copy of the letter was forwarded to the Foreign Affairs Ministry, though it is believed they already have a copy through the Ministry.

It is also expected that Nigeria will reciprocate in restoring the slots to Emirate.

It is not clear, however, whether Air peace, with its limited fleet, can fill up the slots allotted to it – part of the reason that Nigeria always keeps mum in pursuing the Bilateral Air Service Agreement, BASA, equity.

2003 Elections: Adebanjo Mocks Osoba, Others

By
The Source
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By Gideon Njoku

Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Afenifere Leader, Tuesday morning, December 14, mocked former Governor Segun Osoba and his 1999 colleague-Governors from the South-west, for losing their second term bid in 2003.

The then Governors – Bola Tinubu, Segun Osoba, Niyi Adebayo, Lam Adesina, Adebayo Adefarati, Bisi Akande,  of  Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti, Oyo, Ondo and Osun States respectively, all of the Action Democracy, AD – lost their second term re-election bid, except Tinubu.

AD, backed by Afenifere, swept the South-west States in 1999, winning all the Governorship seats. However, their kinsman, General Olusegun Obasanjo won the Presidential seat without their support. He lost in the South-west, but still won the Presidential seat. Obasanjo contested under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

In 2003, the South-west Governors entered into an agreement with Obasanjo – to back him for his own second term and, in exchange, get his own backing for their own second term.

Since the Presidential election was held first, they kept their word to Obasanjo. He swept the South-west. But he kicked them out, and reneged on his agreement with them. Obasanjo’s PDP won all the Governorship seats in the Zone, except Lagos, where Tinubu, who had an inkling that Obasanjo would renege on his agreement with them, prevailed.

Speaking on the political tsunami that swept Osoba and Co. out of office, Adebanjo, known for his bluntness and foul- mouthedness said he had no pity for them. He said they were victims of their own treachery and betrayal.

Adebanjo, who spoke Tuesday morning on Arise Television said their treachery and disrespect and betrayal of Afenifere cost them their re-election bid. He said he had no pity for them. Mocking them, Adebanjo said he had no opinion on their failure to secure a second term.

He, however, disclosed that their problem began when they went behind the Afenifere leadership to strike an agreement with Obasanjo. He said they wanted to be independent of Afenifere, and to boast, thereafter, that they won their election without Afenifere. But they were paid back in their own coin – their treachery – he submitted.

Adebanjo: “It is as a result of their betrayal. Osoba and the rest made an agreement with Obasanjo behind us to despise the leaders of Afenifere because we were claiming that we were responsible for their election. And, they wanted to say that they can win election without us.

“So, they made a deal behind us with Obasanjo, and at the end of the day, Obasanjo kicked them out. They got the result of treachery. They were thinking thar the man will keep to his words, and they will claim to have won election without the support  of leaders of Afenifere. That was what took them to their disaster.

“So, it is a business between  them and Obasanjo and not between them and Afenifere  because it was an act of betrayal. They thought  they could get rid of the leaders of Afenifere, and can then claim to have won election on their own. And Obasanjo then tricked them.”

Adebanjo, however, said the 2003 election was neither free nor fair.

The failure of AD in 2003 to keep the South-west, marked its end as a strong political party.

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