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Imo: As Peace Returns, Uzodimma thanks Imolites

By
The Source
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Hope Uzodimma

With broad smiles, and a grateful heart, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State appreciated the peace that has returned to the State.

Imo State, a once peaceful State was suddenly engulfed by violence which included gruesome murders, destruction and torching of Government facilities, including the State Police Command, Owerri, Police Divisions and  Stations, the Federal Correctional Centre Owerri, and  a number of INEC offices.

Speaking, Uzodinma expressed deep gratitude to Imo people, particularly their leaders, across sectors, for their understanding of the efforts of his administration towards the restoration of peace in the State.

He also thanked them specificall for their ceaseless prayers that resulted to the peace we have started to enjoy once more in Imo State after weeks of security breaches.

The Governor spoke at the Government House Chapel on Sunday amid galaxy of Imo leaders from the business, political, religious and traditional institution class, who joined him at the day’s Church Service.

Governor Uzodimma who described the Imo leaders as partners in progress not only told them that peace had returned to the state but thanked them and all Imo people for believing in his leadership.

Governor Uzodimma lauded the leaders and by extension Imo people in general for the recently concluded visitation by all the 27 local government areas in Imo State, noting that government had taken note of their demands, both political and non-political, and “will deal with  them accordingly.”

“I must thank our leaders, captains of industries and all who came in from outside the state, despite their busy schedule, and sacrificed to be part of the local governments’ visitation. I have taken note of the sacrifice and love for our dear state, and promise that we will not disappoint your reasonable expectations.”

However, Governor Uzodimma enjoined the leaders and Imolites to continue to continue  to pray for the peace of the state in the believe that “only God can solve our problems in Imo State.”

Electoral Act: Nigeria’s Democracy Is Yours To Save, Secondus charges NASS; Tambuwal Urges Members To Stand Firm

By
The Source
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Uche Secondus

Prince Uche Secondus,

National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, says the future, the survival or non-survival of Nigeria’s democracy is in the hands of the National Assembly.

For its survival, Secondus charged members of the National Assembly to take a proper look at the Electoral Amendment and ensure that whatever they do with it would  reflect the wishes and desires of Nigerians.

In the same vein, the Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, who was a former Speaker of the House, ask NASS members to push politics aside, and bequeath on Nigerians an electoral process to be proud of.

In a statement titled Electronic Transmission of Votes: An Appeal To National Assembly Members To Do The Right Thing, Tambuwal said: “It is in the National interest to bequeath to Nigeria an Electoral Act that will contribute to free, fair and credible elections in Nigeria irrespective of party platform”

Secondus said in a statement from his media office on Monday that the legislators should know that the easiest way to engender the eluding peace in the land today is through a free, fair and credible elections which can only be guaranteed by the sincere amendment of the Act.

“Free and fair election is critical to the future of our democracy and it behoves on you parliamentarians to save this democracy by doing the needful

“It’s the electoral reform carried out by PDP administration that prepared the enabling ground that saw an opposition come to power in 2015, to deepen our democracy therefore, we must improve on it and put our nation in positive light in the comity of democratic nations.

The PDP boss said that every true representative of the people in a parliament must ensure that all critical decisions reflect the wishes and desires of their people.

“There is no doubt that every Nigerian desires a free and transparent elections and this can only be gotten if the Electoral Act is adequately amended to meet their aspirations.

Governor Aminu Tambuwal
Governor Aminu Tambuwal

“Laws are made for the interest of the nation not to satisfy any individual, political party or groups”

Prince Secondus charged Nigerians, and civil society bodies desirous of bequeathing true and lasting democracy in this country to rise and pressure their legislators to do the needful.

Finally, the National Chairman urged the lawmakers to appreciate the mood of the nation and endeavor to take actions that will bring down rather than aggravate issues.

In Tambuwal’s statement, he said that the whole political class, the civil society and the international community,  are overwhelmingly in support of Electronic Transmission of Votes.

Following is Tambuwal’s full statement.

“I  am minded and constrained to add my voice in making this appeal to the sitting members of the National Assembly, not as the Vice Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum, nor as Chairman of the PDP GOVERNORS’ FORUM, not even as the Governor of Sokoto State but as a Nigerian citizen and former Speaker of the House of Representatives.

“2. We believe, that it is in the national interest to bequeath to Nigeria an Electoral Act that will contribute to free, fair and credible elections in Nigeria irrespective of party platform. We have seen many times where a person may be in the ruling party today and in the opposition party tomorrow. We have also experienced a situation where party leaders would want to frustrate the re- election of a sitting member, even in the same political Party. What guarantees the re-election of a member of the National Assembly or indeed any other contestant should be his performance and appeal not the dictates of any godfather either as Governor, President or Party leader or stakeholder.

“3. It is a credible, free, and fair election that will ensure that the voters decide any electoral contest. The Edo and Ondo States elections where electronic transmission of votes cast from the unit level ensured that the voters wishes were respected are good examples. PDP won in Edo and APC won in Ondo as a result.

“4. Some have argued that INTERNET penetration in all parts of Nigeria is not assured. This is exactly why the bill should give INEC the prerogative of introducing ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION OF VOTES in any election. In any case, INEC has demonstrated and assured that it has the technology to transmit votes electronically even WITHOUT THE INTERNET. INEC had also assured that with the  new process and technology, any interested Nigerian could track or monitor the results of the election from his or her house.

“Once results of elections are announced from the collation centres, down to the wards, Local Governments and final collation centres, any person can monitor it without any human error”, INEC announced recently.

“5. The international community, INEC, the entire Civil Society, almost ALL the political parties are in support of ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION OF VOTES.

“6. One must distinguish ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION of votes from ELECTRONIC VOTING, which in my view is a little bit more problematic, though achievable.

“7. My intervention is not a partisan one. It must be seen as a contribution from someone who has had varied experiences as a legislator, a former Speaker, a sitting Governor and one who has been involved in leadership of political Parties.

“8. As you decide this question, please, be guided by the wishes of your constituents who should be ultimate arbiters in a democracy.”

State of The Nation: Angry Anglican Bishop Bans National Anthem, Nigerian Flag, In Churches

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Rt. Rev. Ndubusi Chukwuka Obi

By Adesina Soyooye

A Nigerian Cleric has done the unprecedented. In protest against the state of the Nigerian Nation, His Lordship, the Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Ndubusi Chukwuka Obi, has banned the singing of the National Anthem as well as the  hoisting of Nigerian flag in  Churches under his jurisdiction – Nnewi Anglican Diocese.

Usually, during big events in Churches, especially, when a State Governor is present, the National Anthem is played. And the Nigerian flag, as well as other flags, necessary for the event are hoisted.

Many people are wondering, for instance, what the Bishop would do during such occasions. But His Lordship probably does not care. He seems to have had it upto his neck.

Those who know him say he has never hidden his shock at the state of the Nation, or his disappointment in the President Muhammadu Buhari Administration. He has been critical of the Federal Government, and spoken strongly on the need for the restructuring of the country.

The Bishop, according to reports, explained that he took the unusual step of banning both the singing of the National Anthem, and the hoisting of the Nigerian Flag to protest what he described as the President’s maladministration of the country. He says there is no leadership. And there is no direction.

Said the Bishop:“Nigeria has become more divided in President Buhari’s administration. In every part of Nigeria, there is agitation for either secession or injustice. President Buhari has failed woefully, he has redefined the concept of leadership in Nigeria.

“If you look at the pattern of appointment, a part of Nigeria is always favoured in appointments. What our President runs in Nigeria is government of the Fulani by the Fulani and for the Fulanis.

“People are no longer comfortable being in Nigeria, and the worst of it all is that you cannot even protest or talk against the government, everybody is afraid”

The Bishop also abhorred the deployment of the Army  in the South-east, and the manner, he alleged, the troops subject the citizens to inhuman treatment and all sorts of humiliations.

However, opinion in some quarters is that the Bishop, by his action, is disrespecting Nigeria as a country, and could have found another way to express his anger instead of  banning the singing of the National Anthem and the hoisting of the Nigerian Flag  in his Diocese.

By this action, Bishop Obi has gone the way of the detained Muslim Cleric, El-Zakzaky  and his sect, Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN). They nether sing the National Anthem, say the National pledge, nor recognise the Nigerian Flag.

Obaseki Replies Oba Ewuare, Allays Fears of Conflict With Him Over Stolen Artefacts

By
Ayodele Oni
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Godwin Obaseki with Oba of Benin - Ewuare II

By  Ayodele Oni

Edo State Government on Monday explained its role in the planned return of stolen Benin Kingdom artefacts to the Kingdom, with a pledge that, Government will not engage in “disrespectful exchanges” with the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II.

A statement signed by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Mr Osarodion Ogie, stated that: “The attention of the Edo State Government (EDSG) has been drawn to the widely publicised media statement issued by the Palace of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II.

“It is concerning that the statement appears to have created the impression that there is a major conflict between the interests of the EDSG and His Royal Majesty with regards to the laudable national milestone of having our highly valued artefacts returned home to Nigeria.

“The Government of Edo State and the Governor have always acted transparently, and in consonance with existing Federal and State laws, in all matters relating to the proposed return of the artefacts and monuments.

“The actions of the Government thus far, on this issue, have been driven by selfless, patriotic considerations and in the best interest of Edo State and Edo people.

“The Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has displayed and will continue to display immense respect for our traditional institutions and, therefore, will continue to make effort to secure a private audience with His Royal Majesty to discuss his concerns.

“The Governor has consequently ordered that on no account should anyone, whether in government, or acting independently, engage in disrespectful exchanges and/or altercation with our revered Royal Majesty and the Benin Royal Palace.

“Governor Obaseki, meanwhile, expresses his gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) and Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and other officials of the Federal Government for their patriotic and tireless efforts that have brought us to the verge of this eagerly anticipated achievement which has remained elusive for over a century.

“While thanking and congratulating the Federal Government, the President, the Minister, the Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin and all stakeholders who have contributed to the successes so far recorded in this endeavour, the Governor assures that he will continue to work assiduously with all local and international stakeholders for the eventual and final return of these valued records of our great and glorious heritage back to Benin City for the benefit of Edo people, Nigerians and the black race.”

The Oba of Benin had, last week, requested that the Federal Government should take custody of the artefacts to be returned from Europe temporarily.

Oba Ewuare insisted that the rightful destination of the artefacts should be the Benin Royal Museum, rather than a private hand being sponsored by the State Government.

OPINION: A Tale of Two Sides of Chidinma

By
The Source
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Chidinma Adaora Ojukwu

By Mojeed Ajibola Adeyinka

While the news of Baba Ijesha, a Nollywood actor who was accused of molesting a minor, was rending the air, another melancholic incident seized the Nigerian space.

It’s about Chidinma Ojukwu, a 300level Mass Communication student of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), who stabbed his Sugar Daddy, Usifo Ataga, the CEO of Super TV, to death.

That Chidinma publicly confessed she was guilty of the offence made the killing incredible because no one could ever imagine that the exquisite lady, 21 years old, could slaughter a hen let alone commit such a horrendous crime. She looks calm and appears responsible -the reason, I think, her father resisted her arrest by the police before he was apprehended together with her mischievous daughter.

Riding on the crest of gaining admission into a University, most students see education as a license to unruly behaviours and atrocities. Just last week, I was in the admission office of one of the reputable federal universities in the South West when a 100 level female student, who had been requested to submit a portrait picture of herself as one of the requirements for clearance, came with a weird picture; turning back to the camera and turning her head in a seductive manner.

The woman in charge of her clearance was bewildered as she compared the passport the lady took from home where the lady had dressed like ‘the first daughter of Jesus’ in that portrait.

The woman said what I like. She pilloried the lady,  telling her that she left home, she had, almost, turned to something else. A 100 level student for that matter, who has not known where her neck is taking her head to!

At the breaking of Chidinma Ojukwu’s murder case, not only her mates were said to be dumbfounded but also her lecturers. One of the lecturers who pleaded anonymity was reported to say he was flabbergasted at the incident because Chidinma was a gentle lady that rarely talked in class. But, seeing a plethora of her past videos on social media, we know that Chidinma is just a chameleon who does not show her true colour to many people.

For her parents not to be aware of her antiquities means she presents a good girl at home, the other side of who she truly is. Society, particularly, school, must have corrupted her. She had so perfected her odious way that some of her mates and lecturers did not know about her inactions.

Parents and every member of our society are then beseeched to invest more time in child-upbringing and inculcating of moral values. It is a collective effort, not only the parents.

Had Chidinma’s father  visited her in the school, preferably unannounced, there would have been a day he would ran into  her in one of her truest state.

Pathetically enough, most parents believe that after the chameleon has given birth to offsprings, the offsprings should find ways for themselves.

Ataga, a 50 year old who, also, slept with a young girl of 21 is a simulacrum of our rotten society.  Why would a man be having carnal knowledge of a girl who is young enough to be his daughter? Anyway, he’s no more. Yoruba will say: Teni o ku titan which loosely means: he who dies is he who loses, there’s still hope for the living.

As for the culprit, there is no justification for crime anywhere in the world no matter how logical it appears. Chidinma will have been regretting being double-faced; a saint at home and a sinner in school. We await the pronouncement of court of law on her. Nonetheless, when a sin is pregnant, they say, it delivers death.

Mojeed writes in from the University of Ibadan.

PDP Says Zamfara Remains Stronghold Despite Defection By Gov Matawalle

By
Ayodele Oni
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0

By Ayodele Oni

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has insisted that it owns the mandate in Zamfara state despite the defection of Governor Bello Matawalle to the All Progressive Congress, (APC).

The party has therefore raised an alarm over the reported attempt by the police to undermine the statutory powers of the Deputy Governor Mahdi Aliyu Gusau.

This was contained in a statement by the spokesman of the PDP, Mr Kola Ologbodiyan in Abuja.

The statement pointed out that PDP’s position was predicated on the reported harassment of the Deputy Governor by the police, including an unlawful and vexatious obstruction of a planned rally by the Deputy Governor, despite the statutory powers vested in a situation where the governor has vacated his office, in line with the extant ruling of the Supreme Court.

“Instead of harassing the Deputy Governor Gusau, the police, as agents of the law, should be providing him all the protection and privileges, particularly as the formal process for his official declaration given the vacation of office by Matawalle has already commenced at the Federal High Court.

“The Police should know that by virtue of section 221 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as well as the judgment of the Supreme Court in Falake v. INEC (2016), that the Zamfara governorship mandate belongs to the PDP and that Gusau, not Matawalle, is now the holder of that mandate, given Matawalle’s willful defection to the APC.

“The PDP’s mandate is in no way transferable to the APC and the police and all security agencies should be guided by this.

“The PDP also cautions banks and other financial institutions to be wary of unapproved financial transactions with cronies of Governor Matawalle, particularly, given the alleged moves to sweep the coffers of the state ahead of Matawalle’s inevitable eviction by the court.

“Such institutions should be very circumspect in their dealings with impostors who have since ceased to represent the state, immediately Matawalle defected to the APC.”

The enjoined Deputy Governor, Mahdi Aliyu Gusau, to remain resolute and not be deterred in any way as the people of Zamfara state are solidly behind him in resisting imposters and deserters at this trying time.

The party also urged the people of Zamfara state to remain united as the mandate, which they willingly gave to the PDP, will never be allowed to be stolen by traitors.

Supporters Of Former Gov Aspirant In Ondo Protest Expulsion From APC, Write Caretaker Committee

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Jumoke Anifowose

By Ayodele Oni

A faction of the All Progressive Congress, (APC) in Ondo state has called on the national caretaker committee of the party to wade into the expulsion of a Governorship aspirant of the party, Mrs Jumoke Anifowose.

Mrs Anifowose, daughter of the first civilian Governor of old Ondo state, late Pa Adekunle Ajasin, was expelled from the APC after she lost her bid to cancel last year’s Governorship primary election at the Supreme Court.

Mrs Anifowose, along with others, had contested in the primary with Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, 2020, and following her displeasure in the outcome, headed to court to seek redress.

Despite pressures on her to drop the case, she pursued it up to the Supreme Court, which dismissed the matter.

However, immediately after the decision of the apex court, the leadership of the party in the state, announced her expulsion from the party.

In a letter to the Chairman of the APC Caretaker Committee, Governor Mai Mala Buni, the faction described Mrs Anifowose’s expulsion as vindictive and uncalled for.

According to the letter, the former Governorship aspirant will have no option than to challenge the decision in Court if the National leadership does not intervene.

Part of the letter reads, “We, the undersigned members of All Progressives Congress, in Ondo State write to complain about the above-mentioned subject-matter.

“Our silence in respect of the matter was borne out of the fact that the issues surrounding the initial suspension ought to have been justifiably settled by the leadership of the party at the state level.

‘It’s a big surprise to us that instead of resolving a local issue, we as individuals and collectively too have had a taste of the punitive action as we are being stigmatised for supporting Mrs Olajumoke Anifowoshe who is not only our leader but also our mentor.

“Your Excellency, it is a fact that our leader and mentor, Mrs. Olajumoke Anifowoshe contested with the incumbent governor of Ondo State at the primary election held on the 20th day of July 2020.

“It is also a fact that efforts were made to reconcile the parties involved after the outcome of the primary election. It is also a fact that our leader and mentor was asked for her terms for reconciliation which she submitted to the leadership through Chief Pius Akinyelure, the erstwhile South West Chairman of our party.

“It is also a fact that our leader and mentor was left in the dark after she had submitted her terms to the former South West leader – there was no response from the leaders and our leader up-till now has not been contacted by the party’s leadership.

“In view of the above and after exhausting all avenues for redress as provided for in the constitution of All Progressive Congress (April 2014 as amended), our leader and mentor had no alternative than to take her destiny in her hands by seeking redress in the court of law.

“It may not be too obvious to the current leadership of the party, but the following are germane for our leaders to know and confirm from the ordinary people across board in Ondo State, about the kind of person our leader and mentor is:

“She is of the progressive ilk right from her birth to the present time, being the daughter of our illustrious father and the first executive governor of old Ondo State (Ondo & Ekiti States), Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin.

“It is strange to us that somebody who has done so much for the party without asking for, or making any noise about, compensation could be so treated by the party in her ward and state.

“They forced the members of the exco. at the ward and state to suspend and expel her via the media and up till now she has not received any query or letters of suspension/expulsion from any arm of the party.

“We are, however, constrained to let the leadership of the party know that we may not have money and the wherewithal to do what the haters of our leader and mentor have done, but we have our thumbs which are useful when the need arises.

“In conclusion, we demand that good reason prevails. It is not this woman, our leader and mentor, that should be treated with so much disdain by her male counterparts. She is a star in the midst of them, the haters of ethical living.

“We appreciate the leadership of the party and believe the leadership will do well to redress this wrong and soften the hard stance the haters.”

COVID-19: Sanwo-Olu Orders 50 Per Cent Religious Attendance, As Covid-19 Third Wave Hits Hard

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0

By Akinwale Kasali

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered that all religious house to operate at 50% capacity as a third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has hit Lagos.

Lagos State, the commercial hub of the country, was greatly affected during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak that rocked the world, with Lagos State having the highest casualties.

In a statement Sunday, July 11, 2021, the Governor revealed that the rate of COVID-19 patients spiked since the beginning of July signalling the beginning of a  third wave of infections.

“From the beginning of July, we started to experience a steep increase in the number of daily confirmed cases, with the test positivity rate going from 1.1% at the end of June 2021 to its current rate of 6.6% as at 8th of July 2021.”

“The rapid increase within a week gives great cause for concern. Also, within the last two weeks, the occupancy rate at our 2 isolation centres increased from an average of 1% to 6%. This is the new and disturbing reality that now confronts us.

“Greater vigilance is required at this time in our Churches and Mosques and other places of religious worship. Even as we are pleased that religious houses are now open for worship, after the lengthy closures of 2020, we must not allow ourselves to be carried away by the illusion that all is now back to normal. This is especially critical, as Sallah approaches, in a little over a week from now.”

“The festivities will no doubt bring people together in large numbers and create conditions that can sadly cause the spread of the Coronavirus. We must not allow this to happen.”

“For this reason, we are mandating full compliance with all protective protocols. Compulsory use of masks in all public places, Social distancing, Temperature checks, Provisions for hand-washing and sanitizers, and a maximum of 50 percent occupancy in enclosed spaces. Resisting Pandemic Fatigue Whilst both the Federal and State Governments have a huge role to play in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic, the responsibility of managing the third wave ultimately belongs to all of us.”

It would be recalled that the COVID-19 pandemic Third Wave has since hit many countries, following new, more dangerous strains of the deadly virus.

Below is the full statement of the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on the COVID-19 Pandemic Third Wave:

“Fellow Lagosians, it has become imperative to once again provide you an update on the Coronavirus pandemic situation in Lagos State, and our ongoing response as a State Government. Starting around the end of March 2021, the second wave of the COVID19 pandemic in Lagos State began to wind down, and we began to enjoy some reprieve from the worst effects of the virus.

“This allowed us to further open-up the economy to allow the start of the journey towards full normalcy in our lives and the pursuit of livelihoods, after what has been a very difficult year.

“Regrettably, in spite of the hard work and dedicated efforts towards sustaining the return to normalcy, over the last three months, we are now finding ourselves at what appears to be the start of a potential 3rd wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, in Lagos State.

“From the beginning of July, we started to experience a steep increase in the number of daily confirmed cases, with the test positivity rate going from 1.1% at the end of June 2021 to its current rate of 6.6% as at 8th of July 2021.

“The rapid increase within a week gives great cause for concern. Also, within the last two weeks, the occupancy rate at our 2 isolation centres increased from an average of 1% to 6%. This is the new and disturbing reality that now confronts us. But we must not be demoralized by this.

“We must instead resolve that we will not leave any stone unturned in our bid to effectively mitigate the third wave of this pandemic in Lagos State.

“As you all know, Lagos has been the epicentre of the pandemic since the start, and the way we manage it here has a significant impact and reverberating effect on the national outlook and outcomes. So, Nigeria is counting on us in Lagos State to be resolute in our stand against the virus. We will continue to test aggressively. We will also focus on sequencing the samples we are collecting to ensure we are detecting and keeping track of the different variants in circulation.

“It is only by testing and sequencing comprehensively that we can collect the data required for informed decision-making. Epidemiology Update As at the 7th of July 2021, Lagos State had recorded a total of 60,202 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Of this number, 55,135 have recovered in-community and 770 are currently being managed actively incommunity. Over the course of managing the COVID-19 pandemic, about 4,382 patients have been admitted into our various COVID-19 care centres in Lagos: with 357 registered fatalities. 3 In all we have tested 563,679 samples in Lagos State since the pandemic started.

“Today we have 30 accredited testing centers: 26 private and 4 public health laboratories in the State, a significant improvement in capacity over the course of the past year. Accredited Health Facilities Let me make it clear that outside of the health facilities accredited for the management and treatment of COVID-19, and the EKOTELEMED program, no other health facilities, whether public or private, are permitted to admit or attend to COVID-19 patients.

“The Lagos State Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) is providing monitoring and surveillance and has been mandated to apply heavy fines and other punitive measures on all facilities found to be in violation of this. Lagosians should desist from patronizing non-accredited COVID-19 treatment centers, and proprietors should also ensure that all suspected and confirmed cases are referred appropriately. Vaccine Distribution and Access One of the major tenets of our mitigation strategy against the 3rd wave is our vaccination campaign, similar to other parts of the world. It has been observed by various credible studies that those that have received their 4 vaccines have demonstrated significant resistance to the effects of the virus, with fewer associated complications and deaths.

“As of today, however, the percentage of residents of Lagos who have received two (2) doses of the vaccine stands at a mere 1%. We recognise that this is not adequate, and given the imminent third wave, and our priority to reduce COVID-19 related deaths, we are exploring all avenues possible to ramp up access to vaccination so as to reach our herd immunity target of at least 60% COVID-19 vaccination coverage of the population of Lagos State. We are confident that we will be getting a second batch of vaccines very soon, to kick-start the second phase of vaccinations. Travel Protocols for in-Bound Passengers Between 8th May 2021 and 7th July 2021, a total of 50,322 passengers of interest arrived in Lagos via the Murtala Mohammed Airport. Of the 50,322 passengers, 18 percent could not be reached by EKOTELEMED because of the provision of either wrong numbers or wrong Nigerian contact details to be reached on. It is the responsibility of passengers to ensure they provide the right details for us to reach them for proper monitoring. Going forward, passengers that do not provide the right details, including a phone number they can be reached for monitoring and an address for isolation, 5 will face serious sanctions including fines and imprisonment according to our Lagos State Coronavirus Law of 2021.

“Sanctions  against quarantine defaulters as dictated by the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19 (PSC), passengers from red-listed countries (India, South Africa, Brazil and Turkey) are required to observe mandatory isolation.

:So far, we have successfully isolated 2,386 passengers in Lagos State. Of this number, 15% have absconded.

“The following sanctions are being recommended and have already been meted out to defaulters:

“● For Foreigners: Revocation of their Permanent Residency, and deportation; and

“● For Nigerians: Prosecution to the full extent of the Lagos State COVID-19 Law. Religious Activities Greater vigilance is required at this time in our Churches and Mosques and other places of religious worship. Even as we are pleased that religious houses are now open for worship, after the lengthy closures of 6 2020, we must not allow ourselves to be carried away by the illusion that all is now back to normal.

“This is especially critical, as Sallah approaches, in a little over a week from now. The festivities will no doubt bring people together in large numbers and create conditions that can sadly cause the spread of the Coronavirus. We must not allow this to happen.

“For this reason, we are mandating full compliance with all protective protocols. Compulsory use of masks in all public places, Social distancing, Temperature checks, Provisions for hand-washing and sanitizers, and a maximum of 50 percent occupancy in enclosed spaces. Resisting Pandemic Fatigue Whilst both the Federal and State Governments have a huge role to play in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic, the responsibility of managing the third wave ultimately belongs to all of us. Without the cooperation of the public at large, we stand the risks of losing both lives and livelihood, on a devastating scale.

“Therefore, I would like to once again reiterate that this is not the time to get tired or complacent. Instead we must be re-energized to battle this invisible and seemingly relentless enemy.

“After almost 18 months of daily confronting this virus, it is understandable that many are tired and want their old, pre-pandemic 7 lives to return. Unfortunately, we do not have a choice in this regard, and fatigue is not an option. We cannot afford to be tired, frustrated or distracted. The enemy is formidable – and opportunistic. It will only go as far as we allow it.

“Having triumphed over the first and second waves of the pandemic, we must now find within ourselves new reserves of energy to quell this emerging third wave before it snowballs out of control. Let me assure us all that victory over COVID-19 is much closer today than at any other point in our recent history. But we must persevere to see this victory. We must maintain our vigilance even as we ramp up the vaccination coverage.

“At this point, I would like to thank all the members of the Incident Command Structure for their resilience in the management of this neverending pandemic, and also the Federal Government, through the Presidential Steering Committee, for all their support and collaboration. Lagos State will continue to work with all our partners, across government and the private sector, to ensure that we permanently triumph over this virus. We will not rest until this is achieved.”

Dangote Wages Cement War Against Nigerians

By
Bayo Bernard
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0

By Tosin Olatokunbo

Dangote sits comfortably atop Nigeria’s cement sector as the biggest producer, with over 60 per cent market share in his kitty, allowing him to run the industry like a mafia. That may have been responsible for suggestions that the businessman can spark a cement price increase by just sneezing in his Lagos head office.

But in the middle of power enjoyed by the business tycoon now turned oil baron-due to the $19 billion petrochemical refinery he’s building in Lekki, Lagos -are many Nigerians who are willing to own their homes, but could not do so because of the frequent price hike of cement. They are now begging the government to remove the near monopoly enjoyed by Dangote in that sector, so that the market can, at least enjoy price stability to the benefit of all.

Those calling on the government to wade in on the cement price issue, insist that the businessman has enjoyed many government concessions, that he should reciprocate by making the price of its commodities affordable, failure, which the sector should be opened up to other investors to come in.

This is, even, more so following suggestions that Dangote is selling cement in Nigeria at a significantly higher price relative to other countries, particularly Ghana and Zambia where the company have built cement factories.

A civil servant in Lagos said he stopped building on a piece of land he acquired many years ago, at the suburb after cement price moved from N2,800 to N3, 500 within a year.  He said “the federal government should intervene because of many Nigerians who are looking forward to build their own houses.”

Another trader condemned the business man” for punishing Nigerians despite the fact that Dangote made his fortunes from the country but has lost his patriotic fervor because of the need to make huge profit at the expense of many Nigerians.”

The latest move to break the stranglehold of Dangote in the sector is coming from Rabiu Abdulsamad, the Chairman of BUA Group, an indigenous cement producer who has urged the federal government to license more cement producers in the country as a way of forcing down the price of the commodity.

Apart from Dangote, two other major cement producers are BUA and Larfarge who control less than 40 per cent market share in the cement industry.

Speaking recently on the marginal increase in the price of BUA cement, the business man, who in April of this year accused Dangote of manipulating sugar price, said it’s no longer right to have Dangote and two other major cement producers for over 200 million Nigerians, who require at least 80 million tonnes annually. He said the shortfall in supply is responsible for the sharp increase in the price of the product in the last few years.

According to him “The high price of cement is of great concern for me; the price is actually high. We are 210 million or 220 million people, 30 million tonnes of cement per annum is actually low for us.

“No one can really control the price because it depends on demand and supply. We are trying hard to ensure the price is not as high as it is now.

“Nigeria is growing with a huge economy; we need more plants on stream to cater to the rising demand of cement in the country.

“Egypt produces 85 tonnes of cement per annum and the demand of cement in that country is just 50 million tonnes per annum and that is why prices of cement in Egypt are the lowest on the African continent,’’ Rabiu said.

The Nigerian cement industry has three major players dominating the market without enough capacity to produce the 80 million tonnes annual requirement in the country.

Dangote Cement Plc is the leader with over 60 per cent of the market share with a local installed capacity of over 29 million MT, Lafarge Africa Plc having over 21 per cent share with a production capacity of 10.5million MT, and BUA Group accounts for over 17 per cent share and 8 million tonnes per annum.

This situation has enabled Dangote and others to determine the price of cement at the expense of the consumers, said the BUA chairman who had oftentimes questioned Dangote’s patriotism and insensitivity to the plights of Nigerian consumers.

Three months ago, BUA accused Dangote of trying to punish Nigerians by increasing the price of sugar from N13, 000 to N30, 000 per bag during the Ramadan fast, claims that Dangote denied.

In June, the Kano-born businessman who recently agreed to build a N2.5 billion Oncology hospital in Kwara state, also accused Dangote of being responsible for the hike of cement price to at least N3,800 per bag depending on the locations in the country.

Even though Dangote has denied the allegation by blaming the sudden surge in cement price on Naira’s volatility, Abdulsamad said the only way to crash the price, is to register other cement producers.

Uzodimma commesirates with army, air force over death of men in Imo, presents cheques to next of kin

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The Source
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Hope Uzodimma with Army Next of Kin

The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma has paid an official visit to the officers and men of the 34 Artillery Brigade, Obinze and those of 211 Quick Response Group (QRG) of the Nigerian Air Force, Naze all in Owerri, Imo State. 

He visited over the death of their personnel who lost their lives recently during encounters with bandits, to ensure that Imo State is peaceful.

According to his Spokesperson, Oguwuike Nwachuku, it was also an opportunity for the governor to express condolences of the State Government on behalf of the people of Imo State to the families and relations of the fallen heroes.

Speaking at the Army Command Headquarters, Obinze, Governor Uzodimma assured the officers and soldiers that he will accord “all necessary support that will boost their moral, increase their commitment and consequently bring out from them a lasting solution to the crisis that bedeviled the state in the past months.”

In the same vein, at the 211 Quick Response Group of the Nigerian Air Force, Naze Owerri, the Governor told the officers and airmen that he had “come to appreciate their good works in Imo State and to commend them on the successes they recorded in the past months over the crisis that engulfed the state following activities of characters involved in banditry, kidnapping as well as those of  the unknown gunmen.”

“We are here to condole with you for those that lost their dear ones during the period,” he added.

The Governor used the opportunity of the visit to reassure the Army and the Air Force (two departments of the Arm Forces) that the Government and people of Imo State are behind them in all their activities and are “poised now and always to accommodate them and give them warm reception at all times.”

The Governor said: “We are with you in bereavement, gallantry and in dispensation of your work.”

He commended them on the efficient and professional manner they have been handling and carrying out their businesses and conducting themselves, particularly, the professional manner they displayed in dispossessing the kidnappers of their activities in Imo State.

The Governor reiterated that the visit was to re-commit the State over her willingness to support the Armed Forces at all times and to provide affordable assistance that will help boost their moral and increase their commitment to the service of the nation.

“I want to assure you that Imo State Government, the Federal Government, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armd Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Governor of Imo State are behind you in your activities and operations in Imo State.”

The Governor thanked them on behalf of Imo people for bringing back peace to Imo State “as people now go about their normal businesses, sleep with their two eyes closed without fear of molestation and harassment.”

“Imo people are very happy with your performance,” he said and prayed for God’s protection and guidance as the officers and their personnel continue to discharge their duties in Imo.

Appreciating the Governor’s visit, the Commandant, 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, Brig-Gen. Raymond Utsaha described the visit as “a clear indication of the Governor’s sterling and outstanding leadership qualities and his dedication to the service of the nation.”

On behalf of the officers and air men of the Air Force, the Commandant, Group Capt. Idowu Ayo appreciated the support and encouragement of the Governor and also described his visit as a great moral booster.

Both Commandants prayed for a successful tenure of the Governor in Imo State.

Highlights of the visit were the presentation of Cheques and some materials to the next-of-kin of the fallen heroes.

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