PANDEF Moves To Reconcile Fubara And Wike

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October 27, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

The Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, which Chairman is Chief Edwin Clark has set up a high level Peace and Reconcilation Committee to look into the feud between Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

During PANDEF’s Special General Assembly Meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Group issued a Communique that the Reconciliation Committee is, also, saddled with the responsibility of nipping in the bud, all disputes and conflicts within the area.

The Communique signed by King Alfred Diette-Spiff, the Amayanabo of Twon Brass and first Military Governor of Rivers State as Co-Chairman, Board of Trustees; former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Victor Attah, Co-Chairman, Board of Trustees; former Nigeria Ambassador to Scandinavian countries(Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Norway), Dr. Godknows B. Igali, National Chairman, Hon Godwin Okotie, Ag. National Secretary and Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, National Spokesman.

The Reconciliation Committee which is headed by Obong Victor Attah, co-Chairman, PANDEF BoT, has Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien, former Senate Whip, Senator Rowland Owie, Senator Stella Omu, former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Rear Admiral G. John-Jonah, H. E. Pam Ogar, and Rt. Hon. Dr. Stella Dorgu as members.

It said: “The Assembly hereby sets up a High Level Peace and Reconciliation Committee to mediate on and resolve all disputes and conflicts within the area. The Committee is headed by His Excellency, Obong Victor Attah, Co-Chairman, Pandef BOT. Others on the Committee are Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien, Senator Rowland Owie, Senator Stella Omu, H. E. Rear Admiral G. John-Jonah, H. E. Pam Ogar, and Rt. Hon. Dr. Stella Dorgu.”

Though the political crisis between former Rivers State governor Wike and Fubara was not added in the Communique, but when PANDEF’s Spokesman was asked if it was part of the mandate, he said in a text that: “Wike and Fubara are not members of the Committee but the mandate of includes reconcilling their conflict.”

Recall that Wike and Fubara have been at loggerheads a couple of months after the latter assumed office as Governor in 2023. Fubara had said that his rift with Wike is tied to power tussle.

The cold war between the duo has continued despite the intervention of President Bola Tinubu and other relevant stakeholders.

Ekiti Set To Present 2025 Budget, Exco Gives Approval

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Ayodele Oni

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October 27, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

Arrangements have been concluded in Ekiti State to present the 2025 appropriation bill to the state House of Assembly.

Already, the State Executive Council has deliberated and approved the presentation to the Assembly for legislative processing.

This was contained in a statement signed and made available to Journalists by the State’s Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun.

He revealed that the proposed 2025 Budget has Recurrent/Capital ratio of 51:49 which meets the requirement of the Fiscal Sustainability Plan (FSP).

The commissioner explained that the proposed Budget was prepared in line with Section 121(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended, 2011) and consists of the expected Receipts and planned Expenditure of Government for 2025.

According to him, the Budget was drawn up to contain programmes and projects consistent with the Six Pillars of the present Administration after due consultation with relevant stakeholders as well as Government’s Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Governor Biodun Oyebanji had earlier met the people at the three senatorial areas of the state to seek their inputs into the budget.

He had also made it clear that the appropriation bill will address mainly agriculture, and development of farm settlements where majority youths are now engaged to further boost food production.

Niger: Gov Bago Orders IBB University VC To Proceed On Compulsory Leave

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Ayodele Oni

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October 27, 2024

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Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State

By Ayodele Oni

Two months to the end of his tenure, Niger state Governor, Mohammed Bago, has ordered that the Vice Chancellor of Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida University (IBBU) Lapai, Prof Abu Kasim Adamu should proceed on compulsory leave.

Report stated that Governor Bago, Visitor to the University, directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Abdullahi Adamu Mamagi, to deliver the letter enforcing the Vice Chancellor’s compulsory leave.

The Governor allegedly threatened the Commissioner with possible dismissal if he failed to implement the directive.

The reasons behind the compulsory leave remain undisclosed, as officials within the Ministry have refrained from providing details on the matter.

However, insiders at the University suggest the suspension may be tied to claims of the Vice Chancellor’s alleged disobedience and disregard for State directives.

Following Adamu’s leave, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration, Hassan Ibrahim, has assumed the role of Acting Vice Chancellor.

The development has raised questions within academic circles, as many await clarification on the Governor’s decision to place the Vice Chancellor on compulsory leave shortly before his expected departure.

How Scavengers Caused Building Collapse In Abuja – Police

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Ayodele Oni

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October 27, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has given insight to the collapse of a building in Vidaz Estate, located in the Sabon Lugbe extension of Abuja.

Initial investigations indicate that the building had previously been demolished by FCT authority due to its presence on illegally acquired land.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the collapse was triggered when scavengers tampered with the remnants of the structure in search of scrap metal.

“A total of five individuals were successfully rescued from the debris, and there were no reported fatalities.”

The FCT Police Command urged the public to avoid demolished structures and construction sites for safety and to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Earlier report stated that no less than 40 people were reportedly trapped under the rubble of the collapsed storey building.

In multiple videos circulated on social media, particularly X, residents were seen attempting to rescue the trapped victims from the rubble.

Borno Speaker Demands New Presidential Jet For Shetima Because His ‘Life’ Is In Danger

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James Orji

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October 27, 2024

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Borno State House of Assembly Speaker Abdulkarim Lawan, says a new aircraft should be purchased for Vice President Kashim Shetima because his life is currently at risk.

The speaker said as the number two citizen of the country Shittima is not supposed to be flying in a faulty aircraft capable of ending his life.

His remark is contained in a statement he issued on Sunday in Maiduguri, the state capital. He called on the federal government to quickly acquire a new presidential jet for the vice president to avert any tragedy.

The magazine reported that Shetima was stranded in the United States of America, USA, after his aircraft developed when an object hit the front of the cockpit.

The incident had prevented the vice president from representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the recently held Commonwealth Heads Of Government Meeting, CHOGM in Samoa.

Speaking over the incident, the Borno Speaker said he’s grateful to God for saving the vice president “and those on board the ill- fated VP’s plane” that they boarded to the US.

“I also express my gratitude to Allah (God) for saving the precious life of our dear Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima and those on board the ill- fated VP’s plane, even as I urge the Nigerian government to demand a thorough and timely investigation from the United States government over the incident that affected Vice President Kashim Shettima’s plane at one of the most secure spots in the World.

“The life of the Vice President, and that of his crew/officials stand at risk while using the old and faulty presidential aircraft. Therefore, there is the urgent need to acquire a new aircraft to Senator Kashim Shettima so as to avoid these recurrence of air mishaps.”

Recall that the decision to buy a new presidential jet for President Tinubu recently elicited serious controversy in the country, particularly from Nigerians who said it’s not a priority for now, when the country is going through serious economic challenges.

FG Accuses The Guardian Newspapers Of Canvassing Regime Change

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The Source

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October 27, 2024

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has accused one of Nigeria’s flagship Newspapers, The Guardian, of Canvassing for a regime change.

In a strongly worded open letter to the Newspaper signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), the FG said the Newspaper’s Editorial of Friday October 25, is a clear incitement of the people against the President Bola Tinubu Government.

The Guardian had, in a lead story titled: Calls For Military Intervention: Misery, Harsh Policies Driving Nigerians To Desperate Choices lamented the poor state of the economy, the toll it has taken on the people, the harsh realities where most Nigerians have turned to beggars, can barely feed, and so, go to bed hungry.

But in an open letter to The Guardian, Onanuga stopped just short of accusing the newspaper of treason.

Following, Onanuga’s open letter.

RE: “MISERY, HARSH POLICIES DRIVING NIGERIANS TO DESPERATE CHOICES” – OPEN LETTER TO THE GUARDIAN”

“The Guardian newspaper’s lead story of Friday, October 25, 2024 with the title: “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices,” openly incites unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and advocates regime change under the guise of journalism. The inflammatory headline and content deviate from responsible reporting.

“The Guardian’s agenda is unmistakable from the cover illustration to the article. In attempting to create a balanced veneer, the author condemns military rule while fanning the flames of military intervention.

“This is evident in the introduction to the article where the newspaper wrote: “Nigerians were exhilarated with the return of democracy in 1999, but 25 years on, the buccaneering nature of politicians, their penchant for poor service delivery, morbid hatred for probity, accountability, and credible/transparent elections, among others, are forcing some flustered citizens to make extreme choices, including calling for military intervention in governance. .. Deep despondency permeates every facet of the polity consequent upon soaring cost of living. And while the political elite splurge on fine wines and exotic automobiles amid poor service delivery, calls for regime change could become more strident in the days ahead even though military insurrection holds no solution to the country’s woes.

“We must question how The Guardian can present an argument for military intervention while superficially denouncing it unless it harbours a deliberate agenda.

“This latest editorial reflects a troubling trend in which the publication has persistently propagated inflammatory and negative narratives, stepping dangerously close to undermining the very fabric of responsible journalism.

“Moreover, the lead story relies heavily upon emotive language and imagery—such as an illustration of military armoured tank—to bolster its argument while neglecting to present a balanced view.

“It indulges in lampooning the current administration while ignoring positive developments in Nigeria’s economic landscape. The report lacks empirical data and fails to exhibit the journalistic rigour that the situation demands.

“It appears lost on The Guardian that such narratives could embolden anarchists intent on disrupting our democratic process.

“Military rule is an anachronism in modern civilisations, irrespective of its framing, due to the oppressive nature typically associated with its practice. Guided by its experience in 1984, when two of its journalists were jailed by the military regime for reporting the truth, The Guardian acknowledges that military rule is terrible.

“Yet, it attempts to provoke public ire against President Tinubu by suggesting he governs with less regard for citizens than military dictators once did.

“This narrative neglects the hard-fought battle that birthed our democracy and serves only to undermine the hard-won freedoms that Nigerians now enjoy.

“Good journalism is characterised by restraint and a commitment to national interest. Media outlets must propagate responsible reporting that contributes to an informed citizenry.

“During times of political and economic crises, the media, as a force for good, should rally the public around their leaders, fostering unity and patience as reforms are introduced.

“President Tinubu has consistently called for understanding and patience amid our nation’s challenges. This plea is not a sign of weakness but an affirmation of his dedication to a brighter future for Nigeria.

“Moreover, recent policy changes have initiated a turnaround, yielding positive economic indicators.

“According to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the revenue-to-debt service ratio has notably declined from 97% in 2023 to 68% in 2024.

“Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose to $39.1 billion on October 22, with GDP growth achieving 2.98% in Q1 2024—an increase from 2.31% in Q1 2023.

“This growth was driven by sectors beyond oil, including the financial services sector, mining, and quarrying, marking a significant shift in our economic structure.

“We are now exporting more than we are importing, with trade surpluses recorded in two consecutive quarters.

“In the light of the positive developments, it is unacceptable for any publication, including The Guardian, to incite calls for military intervention based on transient difficulties.

“A more cautious and responsible approach would have better served its readers and the nation.

“Journalism—like our democracy—thrives on fairness and objectivity, and all media outlets must uphold these standards.

“We encourage The Guardian and similar platforms to prioritise balanced reporting that fosters dialogue and understanding rather than division and unrest.

“At this time, we need our people and the media to rally around the government as the Tinubu-led administration steers our country through this challenging period to a better future.”

Ebonyi State To Pay N75,000 Minimum Wage

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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October 27, 2024

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

In a twist of irony, the arguably most financially disadvantaged state in the South East region on Sunday, October 27, 2024 announced the second highest Minimum wage for its workforce.

At a time other states in the region are struggling to flow according to the nationally approved N70,000, Ebonyi said it is going to pay N75 000 .

Monday Uzor, the Media Aide to Governor Francis Nwifuru, in a statement informed that the new minimum wage will come into effect on Monday October 28.

The gesture is said to be in line with Government’s recognition of the pivotal role of Civil Servants in driving the growth and development of the state.

This is coming on the heels of the hazy situation that has surrounded the new minimum wage implementation in Abia State, Ebonyi’s closest neighbour.

Penultimate week, Governor Alex Otti, had announced that his administration will commence the payment of the N70 000 wage October ending 2024, But the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has since advised workers in the state to ignore the statement from the Government.

They insisted that the organized labour and Government are yet to agree on the templates to be used for the exercise.

The NLC said it is surprised that Government could rush to announce the outcome of their negotiation when in actual fact no agreement has been reached.

The leadership of the NLC, therefore, assured the workers that they will be properly informed, as soon as Labour and Government are through with their negotiations.

The Anambra and Enugu State Governments have already announced N70,000 and N 80,000 respectively as minimum wages for their workers.

Elected Kano Local Government Officials Get Certificates Of Return

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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October 27, 2024

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Elected Kano Local Government Officials Get Certificates Of Return

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Kano State Independent Electoral Commission, KANSIEC, on Sunday, October 27, 2024, issued Certificates of Return to the winners of Saturday’s Local Government election in the State.

The election which was conducted amidst conflicting Court orders for, and against, was nevertheless swept by the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party NNPP.

The candidates of the party were declared winners in all the 484 Wards and 44 Local councils of the state .

The APC ,had earlier obtained a court ruling halting the polls.

Justice Simon Amobade of a Federal High Court Kano stopped the exercise, ordered security agencies to refrain from participation, declared null and void all actions of the KANSIEC, its members having been adjudged unqualified to hold their positions .

But despite a last minute counter order from Justice Sanusi Ma’aji of a Kano state High Court on Friday ,October 25, validating the election, the Police, and APC shunned the polls.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and Chairman of KANSIEC, Prof Sani Malumfashi, however, scored the conduct of the exercise high, describing it as free and fair.

Among those issued with Certificates of Return was a woman, Hajia Sa’adatu Yushau Tudun Wada. She has made history as

this is the first time in the political history of Kano, despite its acclaimed status as a progressive enclave, that a woman is going to occupy an elective executive seat of such as Local Government Chairman.

Yushau was declared winner for the Tudun Wada Local Government chairmanship race .

Prof. Malumfashi noted that the issuance of the Certificates of Return to the elected officials marked the end of the electoral process which began about two months ago.

“The issuance of today’s Certificates of Return marks the conclusion of our mandate which we have carried out. diligently,and in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of the land”, the KANSIEC Chairman stated

The elected Council leaders are expected to be sworn into office on Monday October 28, while the opposition, particularly, APC is to approach the Courts for redress.

Niger Delta Militant Replies Dokubo, Says Tinubu Is Our Man

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James Orji

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October 27, 2024

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Mayor of Urhobololand, Eshanekpe Israel has replied repentant Niger Delta militant Asari Dokubo over his outburst against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Dokubo, a former militant and leader of the Niger Delta Volunteer Force, NDVF had accused President Tinubu of abandoning him after supporting him to become president last year.

For that, Dokubo said, he would not support Tinubu in the next presidential election, he would form an alliance with northerners to displace him, saying the president and the south west have betrayed Ijaw people after supporting him to become president in 2023.

Dokubo is an Ijaw from Rivers state, and until now an ardent supporter of the president.

Reacting, Israel said Dokubo’s view does not represents that of other Niger Deltans, stressing that the president has done well to earn the support of the people from the oil bearing region in the country.

According to him, Tinubu has ensured development in the Niger Delta since he came to office, saying Tinubu received support from all parts of the country to emerge Nigerian leader, adding that nobody will stop Dokubo from supporting any candidate of his choice in the next presidential election.

He said Tinubu has been fair to all the sections of the country “in his bid to build an equitable political system including empowering the next generation of Nigerians to take the mantle of leadership when their time comes.”

He said further, “It is mischievous for anyone to expect President Tinubu to patronise him at the detriment of the development and growth. He appointed a technocrat, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP; the engine of the service in the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC is grinding nonstop.

“Those we trust in the region were appointed and more than ever before, our creek is experiencing peace as Tantita Security Services Nig LTD, is waging relentless war on oil thieves thereby whittling down the power of criminals.”

Meanwhile, those watching the Niger Delta affairs insist that Dokubo is angry with Tinubu because he no longer receive patronage from the administration.

They say, for instance, that rather than award crude oil protection contract to Dokubo the Tinubu administration preferred to award such multi-billion naira contracts to his rival, Government Tompolo, another repentant militant leader.

Dominican Republic 2024: Flamingos Out Of World Cup, Loses To USA

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Akinwale Kasali

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October 27, 2024

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By Akinwale Kasali

In a revenge of their Quarter Finals loss to the Nigerian Female Under-17 Team, Flamingos, at the India 2022 World Cup, the United States of America, USA, recorded 2-0 win over the African Powerhouse.

The Flamingos had shown strong form, winning all three group stage matches, but faltered in the face of a resurgent American side.

Notably, two years ago, the Flamingos ousted the U.S. at the same tournament’s quarter-final stage via penalties, but this time, the Americans claimed their revenge in Santiago, Dominican Republic.

The game took a turn in the 40th minute when the Video Assistant Referee, VAR, confirmed a penalty for the U.S. after Moshood’s tackle on an American forward. Kennedy coolly converted the spot-kick in the 43rd minute, putting the U.S. ahead 1-0.

Nigeria nearly equalised in the 64th minute when Captain Afolabi capitalised on a defensive error, but her attempt was thwarted by the American keeper.

Moments later, Uzoma pulled off a spectacular save to deny the Americans, only for an offside call to nullify the chance.

The U.S. doubled their lead in the 73rd minute, securing their path to the semi-finals and ending Nigeria’s journey in the tournament.