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Obi Laments Retirees’ Plight Over Non Payment Of Entitlements, Blames Greed, Calls Govt “Wicked”

By
Ayodele Oni
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Peter Obi

By Ayodele Oni

The 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has said greed and insatiable desperation for material acquisition, has made the Federal Government to delay the payment of pensions and gratuities to retirees.

He pointedly said that any Government that withholds the pensions and gratuities of senior citizens in their vulnerable years is wicked.

Obi, in a statement on Sunday, said that many elderly citizens who had dedicated their energies and time to the service of Nigeria are now left to struggle to meet their basic needs.

He noted that following the unwarranted delay in the payment of retirees, they are finding it difficult to access healthcare as the retirees have not received their entitlements.

Obi particularly shared a touching experience he had with a retired civil servant in Nsukka, Enugu State, saying that when he visited Shanahan College of Nursing Sciences, he noticed an elderly woman trying to speak with him.

“Although people around attempted to silence her, I insisted on hearing her out. The woman introduced herself as a retired civil servant who had dedicated her working years to serving the country.

“She told me that she had not received her pension for some time. Even more heartbreaking was the fact that she had been hospitalized for over a week without any money to pay for food, let alone medical bills.

“I felt a surge of anger and pity. Anger at leaders like me, who, out of greed and insatiable desperation for material acquisition, have made life a living hell for others by denying them the fruits of their labor.

“And then pity for the poor elderly woman, and many others like her whose painful stories may never be heard.”

Obi tasked the federal government to accord the retirees’ welfare priority attention, stressing that need for compassion and humanity in leadership.

He said that he gave the woman some financial support and promised to follow up on her case with the hospital, adding however, that he has deep concern for the countless others suffering in silence across the country.

“I have said it before, and I still maintain, that any government that withholds the pensions and gratuities of our senior citizens in their vulnerable years is wicked.

“As a Governor, I inherited and paid off over ₦30 billion in pensions and gratuities accumulated over the years, because I understood the pain the elderly citizens were going through.

“We must fix this nation. Nigeria must work for all, and everyone will get their due rewards for their productive contributions.”

PDP National Secretary: Anyanwu Asks Security Agencies To Call Govs To Order

By
Ayodele Oni
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Senator Samuel Anyanwu

By Ayodele Oni

The battle over the authentic National Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) is far from over as Senator Samuel Anyanwu insists that he remains the recognized scribe. His stand is contrary to that of Governors elected under the PDP. As far as the Governors are concerned, Anyanwu is history.

So, Anyanwu has forwarded a petition to security agencies to be alert  and stop further chaos in the party.

In the petition, dated February 1, 2025, and addressed to the Department of State Security (DSS), National Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, he accused the PDP Governors Forum of inviting chaos with their endorsement of Sunday Udo-Okoye as the recognised National Secretary.

The PDP Governors’ Forum at the end of their meeting in Asaba, Delta State affirmed that they stood with the Court of Appeals decision which ruled in favour of Sunday Ufo-Okoye as national secretary.

Anyanwu, in the petition maintained that the PDP governors, with their decision, are inviting possible threat to peace and security.

Anyanwu, who lost the legal battle for the office of National Secretary at both the High Court and Court of Appeal to Udo-Okoye, declared that he still remains the validly elected National Secretary of PDP until the court rules otherwise, stressing that anything contrary to this will be vehemently resisted.

The embattled National Secretary is known to be an ally of Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT),

He said that he has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the judgment of the Court of Appeal, adding that the Court of Appeal has also directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the substantive application.

According to Anyanwu, the PDP Governors’ endorsement of Ude-Okoye as the recognised National Secretary was in conflict with the court decision, stressing that there would be grave danger if the National Working Committee (NWC), attempts to implement the governors’ position.

Anyanwu further stated in the petition that there was the urgent need for the police to take note of paragraph three of the communique issued by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum after their meeting in Asaba, Delta State, on Friday, January 31, 2025.

“In the quoted paragraph 3 of the Communique, the Forum advised the NWC to set up a machinery for the implementation of the Enugu Court of Appeal judgement, which favoured the nomination of SKD Ude Okoye as the National Secretary of the Party.

“The police should be aware that an appeal has been filed in the Supreme Court against the quoted judgement. Furthermore, the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja granted an order on January 13, 2025, clearly directing both parties to maintain status quo ante bellum pending the determination of the substantive application.

“The order accordingly was duly served on all parties concerned, including the National Working Committee of PDP and INEC.

“It is a settled matter in law that when a judgement is appealed against to a superior court; all parties should maintain status quo ante bellum till the matter is finally determined.

“The governors cannot claim ignorance of this position of law before issuing their statement, which runs in conflict with the court decision.

“The police is aware that on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, the same Ude Okoye, on the ill advice of his cohorts, invaded the PDP National Secretariat, the venue of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting with hired thugs and bandits to unleash attacks intended to disrupt the meeting for which he is not a member.

“That action was completely unlawful and in total disregard of the judiciary and the rule of law. It is saddening that the governors, in their expected wisdom, have allowed themselves to be deceived by the sponsors of Ude Okoye, who are already facing criminal investigations by the police against the forged PDP guidelines, which they used to mislead the courts in securing the ill-fated judgements.

“Police is therefore being alerted to the grave dangers that will ensue in the attempt of the NWC to implement the quoted advice of the PDP Governors Forum enshrined in paragraph 3 of their communique.

“It will be an invitation to chaos and an affront to the judiciary and the rule of law, especially when the matter is pending before the superior courts for determination.

“I am by this letter calling on you to take necessary steps to forestall the crises being instigated by the PDP Governors and the sponsors of Ude Okoye.

“The National Working Committee of PDP should be advised to refrain from any action that will be contrary to the position of the court on this matter.

“It is my right as a lawful citizen to seek justice against a judgement that was fraudulently secured against me.

“In the interest of peace and safety of lives and property of innocent Nigerians, all parties to this case should be cautioned to conduct themselves in line with the rule of law and the decision of the Court of Appeal to maintain status quo ante bellum pending the hearing and determination of the motion.”

Maritime Varsity: ONAC Urges Tinubu To Avoid Another Niger Delta Armed Crisis

By
Akinwale Kasali
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

By Akinwale Kasali

The Oodua Nationalist Coalition, ONAC, has urged President Bola Tinubu to take careful steps to avoid igniting another round of armed conflict in the Niger Delta with the location of Maritime University.

The Group, in a letter sent to President Tinubu, admonish him to resist any attempt to locate the new Maritime University at a community that can spontaneously ignite ethnic violence between Itsekiri and Ijaw in the Niger Delta.

ONAC, a Coalition of over 36 Groups said that if the brewing crisis between the Itsekiris and Ijaw is not addressed in earnest, it may be worse than what happened in1997 when conflict broke out following the military decision that changed Warri South West Local Government headquarters to Ogbe Ijoh instead of Ogidigben.

The crisis led to many deaths and the displacement of over 200,000 people.

The group said while the Maritime University has been approved to be located at Okerenghigho, pressure is being exerted on the President to adopt the name Okerenkoko.

In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Taiwo Adeleye, it said that it is a very dangerous step that should be avoided immediately.

“Apart from the fact that the mention of Okerenkoko can lead to spontaneous violence, there is a Supreme Court Judgment stating that the name of the community is Okerenghigho, which historically belongs to the Itsekiri people”.

ONAC said any alteration of this decision by the Apex Court is not only illegal but would undermine the principle of law while setting the pace for a major conflict in the Niger Delta.

It added that the ancient name of the community is Okerenghigho and not Okerenkoko which does not exist in history, in time and in space but a mere conjecture created by some individuals to usurp Itsekiri indigenous territories.

“The Itsekiri are a smaller but ancient indigenous community in Delta State. They have suffered untold hardship, repression, historic injustice, assault, continuous and desperate plot hatched by their enemies to swallow they up through conscious distortion of their history. Lately, many of their ancestral territories have been violently usurped, violated and seized at gunpoint by hostile forces”.

The coalition further stressed that the Yoruba people will not stand alone and allow Itsekiriland to be assaulted and humiliated by any group.

“Yoruba are blood-bound with the Itsekiri and that any insult or attack on Itsekiri is an insult and attack on Yoruba history and civilisation.

“Mr President, we urge you to act with wisdom. We urge you never to allow corrupt people to lure you into creating another round of crisis that will affect the reputation and standing of your government in the eyes of your own people.

“We urge you never to sign any bill that is against the Judgment of the Supreme Court and a bill that can spark another round of hostility in the Niger Delta’

ONAC said there is a growing but wrong impression being created in the Niger Delta that the Presidency has been captured by a particular armed militant who is believed to rely bribery, blackmail and threats to have his way.

“No responsible Government should allow itself to be controlled by armed groups neither should any government succumb to cheap blackmail”, ONAC said.

Over 32,000 Delta Students Receive Bursary Payment February 3

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Governor Sherrif Oborevwori

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

All is set for the payment of the 2023/2024 bursary award to Delta students across all tertiary educational institutions in the country.

A statement from Dr Godfrey Enita, the Executive Secretary of the State’s Bursary and Scholarship Board on Saturday, February 1,2025, informed that 32,028( thirty two thousand ,twenty eight) students are to benefit.

According to him, baring any unforeseen development, payments are to start on Monday, February 3,2025

Dr Enita lauded the state Governor for prioritizing the welfare of Delta students, and urged them to reciprocate the gesture by also paying adequate attention to their studies.

He tasked the beneficiaries on the need to justify the investment being made in them by the state authorities.

“This is to notify the general public, particularly, students of Delta State origin in tertiary institutions in Nigeria that the Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board will commence payment of the 2023/2024 students Special Assistance Scheme ( Bursary Award ) on the 3rd of February 2025 .

“This payment is specifically for students of Delta State origin who are enrolled in tertiary institutions across Nigeria and have completed the necessary registration and verification processes for the 2023/2024 Bursary Award

“The Delta State Bursary and Scholarship Board wishes to. commend His Excellency, Executive Governor of Delta State Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for prioritizing the welfare of Delta students in particular, and for upscaling educational  development in general and making it a critical component of his M.O.R.E agenda”, part of the statement reads.

The Source reports that the Students Special Assistance Scheme SSAS, has been a ritual in the state over the years to encourage and assist students in their educational pursuits.

“Protect Pilgrims From Electronic Payment Fraud,” Katsina Gov Radda To NAHCON

By
Ayodele Oni
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Umar Dikko Radda - Governor of Katstina State

By Ayodele Oni

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda has called for reforms to improve the operations of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ibrahim Mohammed, stated that the Governor made this call during a courtesy visit by the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof Abdullahi Saleh Usman, at the Governor’s Lodge, Abuja.

Governor Radda pointed out that the 2024 Hajj operations in Katsina experienced several challenges, including the impact of currency depreciation on pilgrimage costs.

“Last year, Hajj operations faced significant difficulties, causing distress to many intending pilgrims and the government alike. Despite these challenges, we managed to send about 2,700 pilgrims from Katsina State.”

The Governor proposed reducing the pilgrimage duration from 40 days to three or four weeks to minimize costs.

“I question why our pilgrims are required to spend up to 40 days in Saudi Arabia after Hajj, while those on international Hajj programmes complete their pilgrimage in just five to seven days.

Addressing medical concerns, Governor Radda revealed that his administration had to supplement NAHCON’s medical supplies last year,  emphasizing the need for preventive healthcare, stating,

“I strongly recommend that malaria medication be given to pilgrims before departure to prevent serious health complications.”

The Governor also disclosed that Katsina State provided significant financial support to its pilgrims in 2024, including over ₦500 million for animal sacrifice (Hadya) and increased the Basic Travel Allowance from $400 to $4,500.

Radda stressed the importance of protecting rural pilgrims from electronic payment fraud and called for continued federal government support in subsidizing exchange rates for Hajj payments.

“I’ll be meeting with other Northwest governors to discuss this issue and collectively raise it with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to find a lasting solution,” the Governor assured NAHCON delegation.

Governor Radda explained that the federal government intervention in subsidizing the exchange rate for Hajj payments has been beneficial, urging President Tinubu to continue such support.

The Governor also noted the role of religious leaders and media in pilgrim education, expressing confidence in improved operations for future Hajj seasons.

Earlier, NAHCON Chairman, Prof Usman detailed the Commission’s efforts to reduce costs for the 2025 Hajj exercise.

“Through discussions and engagements with service providers in Saudi Arabia, we have been able to save approximately ₦50 billion for our pilgrims, and we are still working on securing additional reductions.”

The Chairman revealed that initial projections had put the 2025 Hajj fare at over ₦10 million. “However, due to our efforts, we have successfully reduced it to ₦8 million, and we are still negotiating further reductions. Insha’Allah, if we receive additional waivers, the fare will be further reduced.”

Usman identified key challenges facing the Commission, particularly the Central Bank of Nigeria’s two percent charge on remittances.

“Last year, the Federal Government provided a ₦90 billion subsidy, yet ₦1.7 billion was deducted as charges. Given that this year’s total remittance is projected to reach nearly ₦500 billion, the deduction could amount to over ₦20 billion.”

The Chairman also highlighted that aviation-related charges constitute approximately 65 percent of the total Hajj costs, indicating that the Commission has already initiated requests for waivers or reductions in these charges, which could potentially lead to further decreases in the Hajj fare.

Prof Usman sought Governor Radda’s support in engaging relevant authorities to secure these waivers, emphasizing the importance of making the pilgrimage more affordable for Nigerian Muslims.

Aregbesola’s Aide Claims His Boss Made Tinubu, Oyetola’s Aide Disagree

By
Ayodele Oni
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Rauf Aregbesola and President Bola Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

Aides to former Minister of Interior and that of immediate past Governor of Osun State are trading words over the rise to political stardom of Rauf Aregbesola and President Bola Tinubu.

Media aide to Rauf Aregbesola, Sola Fasure, claimed that it was the pivotal role Aregbesola played that made Tinubu the Governor of Lagos State in 1999.

However, former Special Adviser to ex-Osun Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, Jamiu Olawumi, dismissed Fasure’s claims as false.

“Aregbesola was nothing when he met Tinubu. Tinubu contested for the Senate and won, but Aregbesola contested for the House of Representatives and lost.”

Fasure stated that Aregbesola’s influence helped straighten Tinubu’s political journey, first securing him a Senate seat for Lagos West, and later ensuring his victory as Governor.

Speaking on a current affairs programme “Frank Talk” on Rave FM, Osogbo, Fasure asserted that Tinubu’ s political rise would not have been possible without Aregbesola’s strategic support.

“The relationship between Tinubu and Aregbesola is mutually beneficial. Aregbesola was the one who made Asiwaju Tinubu a Senator in 1991.

“When Tinubu retired from Mobil Oil and joined politics, it was Aregbesola he ran to. At that time, Aregbesola was already an established politician in Lagos, and he helped Tinubu secure the SDP ticket for Lagos West Senate.”

Fasure further claimed that when Tinubu sought to become governor, Aregbesola was instrumental in securing the Alliance for Democracy (AD) ticket for him, despite opposition from Afenifere leaders who preferred Funso Williams.

“It was Aregbesola who overturned that decision and helped Tinubu win the election.”

Speaking further, the Special adviser to the Governor alleged that Aregbesola later turned against Tinubu and the APC, shifting his allegiance to the PDP and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke.

“The exit of Aregbesola and his cohort is goodbye to bad rubbish. We are not going to miss them,” Olawumi declared.

How 28 Passengers Were Burnt To Death In Ondo Accident

By
Ayodele Oni
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Ondo Accident

By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), in Ondo State, has confirmed the death of 30 persons in a road accident that occurred at Onipetsi, along the Ore-Lagos highway, Odigbo Local Government Area.

A total of 28 persons were burnt beyond recognition while two others died while being taken to the hospital for treatment.

Two survivors are said to be receiving treatment in a hospital.

.

According to the FRSC, the accident occurred when two commercial buses had a head on collision and burst into flames.

Ondo FRSC Commander, Samuel Ibitoye, explained that preliminary investigation showed one of the vehicles drove against traffic, before colliding with the other one.

Ibitoye said the accident happened on Saturday. He assured that investigation would unravel more details on the incident.

According to him, the accident was caused by excessive speeding and traffic violation which led to a head-on collision by the two vehicles while 28 passengers out of 30 passengers lost their lives tragically. He a that drivers must always exercise patience on the highway.

Ibitoye also urged passengers to always caution drivers against reckless driving.

He added that the remains of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital in Ore while the two survivors who sustained high degree of injuries were at the same hospital for treatment.

“Tthe accident was caused by excessive speeding and traffic violation which led to a head-on collision by the two vehicles while 28 passengers out of 30 passengers lost their lives tragically.

“it’s unfortunate that 28 lives were burnt beyond recognition in the fatal accident caused by excessive speeding and traffic violations.

“The contract between drivers and passengers is to take them safely to their destinations after they have paid not to drive them to their graves.

“This is why everyone must participate in road safety, the passengers too have a role to play by cautioning drivers or reporting them to FRSC personnel on the highway.”

NAHCON Moves To Reduce Hajj Fares, Negotiates With CBN, Stakeholders

By
Ayodele Oni
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Nigerian Pilgrimages - Hajj

By Ayodele Oni

The National Hajj Commission, (NAHCON) has revealed that four Airlines have been shortlisted to airlift pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj.

NAHCON Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate & Licensing, Panofi Elegushi, while providing detailed updates on operational preparations for the 2025 Hajj exercise, emphasized that while significant progress has been made in reducing costs for offshore services in Saudi Arabia, domestic charges remain a challenge.

“The major concern now is securing waivers from relevant agencies, particularly in the aviation sector. If these agencies grant us a waiver, it will have a direct impact on airfare and will significantly reduce the overall cost for pilgrims.”

The Commissioner, speaking in an interview with members of Nigerian Hajj Media Support Team, (NHMST), in Abuja  stated that following a rigorous screening process, four airlines have been shortlisted for the 2025 Hajj operations: Flynas, Max Air, Air Peace, and OMSA.

“A total of 11 airlines initially applied, but after rigorous screening, these four were deemed capable of delivering quality services.”

Addressing payment challenges, Elegushi urged state governments to consider advancing funds on behalf of their pilgrims.

“We appeal to state governments to frontload payments for their pilgrims, which will later be deducted during the reconciliation process. This will ensure that we meet the deadline without putting pressure on individual pilgrims.”

The Commissioner emphasized the critical need for enhanced public awareness regarding drug-related offences, noting ongoing concerns about Nigerian pilgrims being apprehended with prohibited substances in Saudi Arabia, often unknowingly.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Prof Abdullahi Usman, appealed to the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN), to waive the two percent charge imposed on pilgrims’ funds.

Prof. Usman emphasized that the removal of the two percent charge would significantly reduce Hajj fares for Nigerian intending pilgrims.

The NAHCON’s boss reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the Commission fulfills its mandate of enhancing the welfare of the Nigerian pilgrims.

He stated that one of his major priorities, since assuming office, was to reduce the cost of Hajj, making it more affordable for Muslims across the country.

“I am confident that lowering Hajj fares will bring relief to our pilgrims, leaders, and the entire Muslim Ummah.”

To achieve this goal, Saleh explained that he had engaged key Hajj service providers, including airliners, Masha’ir service providers, accommodation providers, and transportation companies, in collaboration with the Forum of State Pilgrims Welfare Agencies.

He highlighted that the negotiations had already yielded significant reductions in various Hajj service components.

He explained that in Masha’ir Services: Last year, pilgrims were charged 4,770 Saudi Riyals, but following discussions, NAHCON secured a reduction of over 700 Saudi Riyals per pilgrim.

Accommodation in Madinah, according to him, the cost per bed space was 5,000 Riyals last year, but a reduction of 200 Riyals per pilgrim has been achieved.

“Transportation: Last year’s transportation cost stood at 1,300 Riyals per pilgrim, but this year, NAHCON successfully negotiated a 130 Riyal reduction per pilgrim.

“Airfare: Given Nigeria’s geographical diversity, airfare costs vary across regions. However, under Prof Saleh’s leadership, NAHCON was able to secure a $399 reduction per pilgrim.

“These reductions have significantly impacted the overall Hajj fare, and we are still expecting further adjustments.”

While noting that NAHCON is not requesting government subsidies, Saleh appealed to authorities to consider selling dollars to the Commission at the official government exchange rate.

He stated that this measure, if approved, would further lower Hajj fares.

On the deadline for Hajj fare payments, the NAHCON Chairman clarified that the Commission has no control over the deadline but can only appeal to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj for an extension if necessary.

He urged intending pilgrims to complete their payments promptly to avoid any last-minute issues.

Saleh also called on State Pilgrims Welfare Agencies and stakeholders to intensify public enlightenment campaigns, ensuring that intending pilgrims understand the importance of timely payment and proper preparation for a successful Hajj pilgrimage

Joe Igbokwe Says To See Amaechi, Fayemi, Kwankwaso, Aregbesola With Atiku Makes Him Sick

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Joe Igbokwe

By Adesina Soyooye

Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Lagos chapter, has lamented the untidy relationship between some APC chieftains and the Party. By extension, Igbokwe, a former Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor hints on the untidy relationship between them and President Bola Tinubu.

Igbokwe says mere seeing them and/or hearing that they are meeting with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar makes him sick; makes him want to throw up; frustrates him.

Specifically, he mentioned Dr Kayode Fayemi, a two-term APC  Governor of Ekiti State. Kayode was thought to be very close to Bola Tinubu, until he declared his interest in running for the office of the President in 2023, even when Tinubu had already declared interest. Ironically, not a few people attribute Fayemi’s victory  in the Ekiti Governorship polls, especially, his first term, to Tinubu.

The other person he mentioned is Chibuike Amaechi.

Atiku Abubakar
Atiku Abubakar

Amaechi was a two-term Governor of Rivers State under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, who inexplicably defected to the APC in the few final months of his second term. Thereafter, he was appointed the Director General of then General Muhammadu Buhari’s Presidential Campaign Council. He joined Tinubu as a founding member of the APC, the Party which swept  the PDP out of office at the National level. However, again, he, inexplicably, threw his hat into the Presidential race in 2023, knowing fully well that Tinubu, who they all referred to as the Leader of the APC was running for the same office. It was no surprise that he was roundly defeated even though he was the first runner-up.

The next person Igbokwe mentioned is Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, two-term Governor of Kano State under the PDP. He, too, dumped the Party for the APC, returned to it later, left again to help found the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP. He contested for the Presidency against Tinubu under his NNPP, but came a very distant fourth behind Tinubu, Atiku and Peter Obi.

The most surprising name in the pack is Rauf Aregbesola. The man, a two-term Governor of Osun State under the APC, was not only the Commissioner for Works in Lagos State under   the Governorship of Tinubu, but Tinubu was instrumental to his becoming the Governor of Osun State, as well as becoming a Minister under the Buhari Government. But they fell apart over Aregbesola’s successor, now Minister for Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola. It was so bad that Aregbesola, who, before then, was Tinubu’s eyes and ears, politically,  publicly put curses on Tinubu.

Now, it is these four people, all former Governors, all either APC  current or former staunch members, that Igbokwe says make him want to throw up when he sees who their associate is  now – Atiku Abubakar.

For the records, Atiku was in their camp before. All of them, except Aregbesola, were in same political party – PDP, and connived to dump  it for the APC.

According to Igbokwe, these four men have been associating with Atiku, meeting with him, probably, against 2027, in order to stop Tinubu’s second term. Igbokwe thinks they are forming a coalition to stop Tinubu in 2027. And he wants them to not only stop, but to return, fully, to the APC. He is frustrated by the mere thought that they are meeting with Atiku, the man who challenged Tinubu for the office of the President and criticizes every of Tinubu’s action.

So in the post, Igbokwe wrote, especially for the attention of APC faithful: “Good morning everyone, especially, our APC faithful supporters across Nigeria. I want HE Amaechi, HE Fayemi, HE Aregbesola, HE Kwankwaso, and others to move back to APC. Seeing them in Atiku’s camp makes me want to vomit.”

Igbokwe has not been offered any position since Tinubu’s tenure as President.

“You Must Commit N15b  Monthly Or…” – FG Warns MTN

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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0
Dave Umahi
Dave Umahi

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Federal Government of Nigeria on Saturday February 1, 2025, set the  commitment of N15 billion, monthly, by telecommunications giant ,MTN ,for the purpose of fast tracking the reconstruction of the  Enugu/ Onitsha Express way as a precondition for the continued validity of the said  contract.

This is even as the  Anambra/ Enugu Caucus of the National Assembly, expressed  serious concern  over the lip service being paid to various ongoing federal projects in the South East region of Nigeria.

At a courtesy visit by the National Assembly, Dave Umahi, Minister of Works, threatened to terminate the ongoing reconstruction efforts on the all important expressway unless the financier, MTN, makes an irrevocable payment of N15 billion monthly, over a period of ten months for the speedy completion of the road.

The visit of the National Assembly members came on the heels of the tragic tanker accident on the road last week which claimed no fewer than 20 lives and seriously injured many.

The Source reports that the Enugu/Onitsha Express way is being financed by MTN at an estimated cost of about N202b under the Federal Government’s Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme.

However, the Federal Ministry of Works has severally expressed concern over the unnecessary delays being experienced in the completion of the job which is being executed by Royal Construction Company, RCC .

The delay has been attributed majorly to paucity of funds occasioned mainly by the alleged inability of MTN to meet its financial obligations .

The fatal tanker explosion at Ugwu Onyema end of the expressway, has forced many stakeholders, including the National Assembly members from the beneficiary states – Enugu and Anambra – to question the motives for the seemingly endless delays in completing the project.

In a statement issued  on Saturday by,Uchenna Orji, his media aide ,the Works Minister warned that Government will be left with no other option than to terminate the contract if parties fail to live up to the terms of the agreement reached.

According to the statement, the meeting between Umahi and the Federal Law makers agreed that about three contracting firms will be needed ,to facilitate early completion of the 79km highway.

While commiserating with the people over numerous lives that have been lost on the road, including the recent tanker explosion, the Minister, reassured of the commitment of the Federal Government towards improving the road networks in the region.

He, therefore, urged the residents of the South East Zone to have implicit confidence in the abilities of  President Bola Tinubu’s administration to transform infrastructural facilities within the area.

According to the Minister, despite many constraints, the President has  shown enough commitment in according priority to the needs of the South East region.

The leader of the visiting National Assembly members, Senator Osita Ngwu, while appreciating the high level of infrastructural renewal projects both completed and ongoing across the country, however, called on  the authorities to give adequate attention to projects being executed in the South East .

Senate Ngwu, who is the Minority Whip, regretted that most Federal projects in the Zone suffer delays in completion due mainly to inadequate funding.

He blamed the development for the monumental loss of lives recorded during the recent  tanker explosion on the Enugu/Onitsha Express way.

According to him, most sessions of the road have become death traps due to unnecessary delays in completing the project.

“We are worried that some of the projects that are ongoing in the South East are not receiving funds that can make them progress so that we can have the benefits of such projects.

“We appreciate that since the Minister assumed office, the President has graciously approved quite a number of projects in the South East.

“But when these projects are not funded, it looks like it is just a game”, the National Assembly members noted.

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