Home Blog Page 920

Bauchi Governor Sacks Five, Nominates Nine New Commissioners

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Bala Mohammed - Governor of Bauchi State
Governor Bala Mohammad

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has dropped five  members of the State  Executive Council, in a major rejigging exercise announced on Tuesday January ,7,2025 .

A statement from Mukhtar Gidado, Media aide to the Governor, informed that the move is primarily aimed at repositioning the administration for enhanced service delivery.

“Governor of Bauchi State has approved the reconstitution of his cabinet, In that respect,  five Commissioners were dropped.

“This move reflects the administration’s commitment to injecting new ideas and energy into governance in line with the Governor’s vision of strengthening the machinery of Government and addressing emerging challenges effectively.

“The Commissioners affected by this development are, Dr Jamila Dahiru ,Commissioner for Education, Barr.Abubakar Abdulhameed Bununu , Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs , Comrade Usman Danturaki, Commissioner for Information and Communication, Prof.Simon Madugu Yalams, Commissioner for Agriculture, and Alhaji Yakubu Ibrahim Hamza ,Commissioner for Religious Affairs and Societal Reorientation.

“Conversely, Governor Mohammed has forwarded  the names of replacements for the sacked  Commissioners to the State Legislators for screening and possible confirmations.

The newly nominated Commissioners are Hon  Isah Babayo Tilde , Abdullahi Mohammed ,Dr Bala Musa Lukshi ,Usman Shehu , and Iliyasu Gital .

Others are Prof Titus Saul Ketkukah ,Hon Adamu Babayo Gabarin and Dr Mohammed Lawal Rimin Zayam.”

Governor Mohammed, according to the statement, expressed the optimism that his administration will deliver on its electoral mandate.

Threat On Obi: Atiku Says Tinubu’s Administration Is Hostile To Opposition

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Atiku Abubakar

By Ayodele Oni

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has flayed what he described as ” increased hostility towards opposition figures” by the ruling party in Nigeria.

The former Vice President, who took to his X account condemned the recent inflammatory remarks made by APC Publicity Secretary Felix Morka against Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the last general election.

Atiku described the threats and continued detention of prominent critics like Mahdi Shehu as troubling signs of Nigeria’s slide toward authoritarian governance.

In his post, Atiku expressed alarm over Morka’s statement that Obi has “crossed the line,” calling it a dangerous attack on democratic principles.

“Democracy thrives on civil discourse, not on hostility and threats,” Atiku wrote, urging the APC to apologize to Obi and the nation for the disparaging comments.

The former Vice President emphasized that a democratic government’s duty is to engage critics and embrace alternative viewpoints.

“What does it mean for Obi to ‘be ready for whatever comes his way?’ This rhetoric undermines the foundations of our democracy.”

He also highlighted the prolonged detention of Mahdi Shehu, describing it as a blatant suppression of dissent and called on President Tinibu’s administration to respect the rule of law and protect the freedoms essential to a vibrant democracy.

NFF Appoints Eric Chelle As New Coach Of Super Eagles

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Éric Sékou Chelle

By Akinwale Kasali

The Abdullahi Gusau-Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Executive Committee has approved the appointment of Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The decision to appoint Chelle was formally endorsed by the NFF Executive Committee on January 7, 2025, following the recommendation of the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee during its meeting held in Abuja on January 2, 2025.

The 47 year-old brings a wealth of experience to the role, having managed clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. He also has international coaching experience, having led Mali’s senior national team to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.

During his playing career in France, Chelle represented several clubs, including Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.

Born in Côte d’Ivoire to a French father and a Malian mother, Chelle was eligible to represent Côte d’Ivoire, France, and Mali. He opted for Mali, earning five caps before retiring.

As Mali’s head coach from 2022 to 2024, Chelle recorded an impressive 14 wins, five draws, and three losses. His tenure with Mali ended in June 2024.

Chelle’s appointment as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles comes after Finidi George’s resignation following disappointing results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Chelle’s appointment is effective immediately, and his primary task will be to guide Nigeria to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals and also to the 2025 African Cup of Nations Championship scheduled for December to January 2026 in Morocco.

Chelle is saddled to guide the National Side for their Crucial Matchday 5 and 6 World Cup Qualifiers scheduled for March 2025.

How Suspended Edo Council Chairmen Gifted Party Leaders N12 Billion – Gov Okpebholo

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Monday Okpebholo - Governor of Edo State
Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State.

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Edo state Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, accused the suspended Chairmen of the Local Councils of being the conduit through which billions of Naira public funds were illegally channeled to some Peoples Democratic Party PDP bigwigs in the State.

The Source reports that the 18 Local Government Chairmen and their Deputies were, on December 15,  suspended from office by Governor Okpebholo.

The Edo state Government cited the failure of the Council officials to avail the State- inaugurated Assets verifications and recovery committee their  Councils’ financial records as earlier directed by the Governor.

A statement by his Media Aide, Fred Itua, alleged that the suspended Council officials collectively and severally remitted a whooping sum of N12 billion to some leaders of the ousted PDP within a very short  period

Okpebholo who revealed this at an interactive session with the Interim Leadership of the Councils at the Government House, alleged that the  embattled Chairmen were making a monthly payment of N800 million to the coffers of the PDP stalwarts.

According to  Governor Okpebholo, the outrageous payments were made under a nebulous subhead called ‘Environmental Security Funding.’

“When I came into office, I had a meeting with the Accountant General of the State, and he showed me some books. Some of these spending had no explanation.

“I picked interest in some of the spendings because I saw an item which was tagged ‘Environmental Security Funding’

“I have never heard about that before, and the amount involved was huge – N800 million every month. These Chairmen were contributing this money and giving them to the leaders of a party.

“This development led to inviting the Chairmen to a meeting. But I could not meet with them personally. However, my Deputy met with them.

“He asked them to explain certain spendings but none could explain. He asked them to provide their books and they agreed, and promised to do so within 24 hours. But my Deputy said no, let it be in the next 48 hours

“But these Chairmen ended up not obeying the directive even in two weeks time as none submitted his books.

“Following the  development, I sent a letter to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, to look into the records.

“As a former parliamentarian, I know there is a body that has a function over them. So l sent a letter to the Edo State House of Assembly ,and they were invited, but they refused to go. They were subsequently suspended from office for two months”, Governor Okpebholo stated.

He expressed deep concern that this high level of  profligacy and questionable expenditures were being incurred at the same time most of the public infrastructures, particularly schools, were in a very deplorable condition.

“These Chairmen were engaged in wasteful spendings, even when our schools did not have teachers .When you get to primary schools, you will find two or three teachers where you are supposed to have 10 or more”, the Governor noted .

He, therefore, appealed to the interim leadership of the Councils to prioritize grassroots development which he insisted is one of the focal points of his administration.

“The only way to drive development to the grassroots is through you. The President also recognizes the Local Government as such and has been consistently advising Governors to be intentional in accelerating growth through the Local Governments .

“I am ready to work with the Chairmen of various Local Government Areas .I am ready to work with you to see that various council areas progress .

“You have the full power as Local Government Chairmen. The Local Government Commission will cooperate with you to ensure you succeed in your duties to serve the grassroots people”, the Governor noted.

Ondo CP Welcomed By Cult Clash, Arrests 29 Suspects, Says Illegal Firearms In Circulation

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Olutokunbo Afolabi - Ondo CP

By Ayodele Oni

Mr Olutokunbo Afolabi, who resumed on Tuesday as new Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, has announced that  19 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing of four persons in Monday’s cult clash in Owo.

The clash was triggered by two opposing cult groups in the town with one of them trying to revenge the previous attack on its members by the other group.

Among the deceased are a youth leader of APC, mother and her child hit by stray bullets.

Addressing newsmen in Akure, Mr Afolabi revealed that he paid on the spot assessment to Owo township to get first hand information on the crisis while full scale investigation has been launched to ascertain real cause of the mayhem.

He pointed out that normalcy has been restored to Owo as he vowed that the curfew imposed on the community by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa was complied with by residents.

The Police boss who was posted to Ondo State on December 24, 2024, promised that he would enhance professionalism, discipline and welfare packages for his officers

Afolabi who lamented influx of illegal firearms in circulation as demonstrated by killings in Owo, said he would deploy his men to arrest bearers and retrieve such weapons.

He warned that he would set up special team to monitor operations of policemen on roads in the state to chcekmate their excesses of alleged molestation of road users.

Ondo Reps Member Accuses Bishop Of Lying About His Performance

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Timilehin Adelegbe and Revd Stephen Fagbemi

By Ayodele Oni

A member of the House of Representatives in Ondo State and an Anglican Bishop have engaged in brickbats over the performance of the Lawmaker.

Timilehin Adelegbe, representing Owo/ Ose Federal Constituency in Ondo State, was accused by His Lordship, Bishop of the Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew, Owo, The Rt. Revd. Stephen Fagbemi, of not being accessible describing him as a disappointment to most of his constituents.

While reacting to the allegation,  Adelegbe said: “My line is always on. I pick all manner of calls and if I’m busy, I do return all the missed calls, so, I don’t know where this allegation is coming from because the Bishop has never called me without picking it”

The Cleric made the allegations at an event at the St Andrews Church, Owo, which was attended by Adelegbe himself.

The Bishop alleged that  Adelegbe, a two- term lawmaker, has become inaccessible to the constituents since becoming the lawmaker over five years ago.

Recognising dignitaries at the event, Bishop Fagbemi told Adelegbe that, “You have not been accessible to those that voted for you since you went to Abuja.Your number is no longer available again.”

During the closing remarks, the Bishop also reminded the lawmaker:

“Please let your number be available whenever we call you.“

Adelegbe, in his defence maintained that “I’m not far from my people. Owo is my home. It’s on record that I’ve  been judged by the same constituents as a true representative that really cares for his people, considering my monumental achievements in the Owo/Ose Federal constituency in the last six years.

“From available records, Otunba Adelegbe was with his people for the sixth edition of his mega empowerment programme among students, artisans, market women and many different groups, where many went home with tricycles, motorcycles, hair dryers, laptops, cash grants, pumping machines, generators, deep freezers, among others.

“Aside from all these, many projects initiated by him had been completed and he has recently released N300 million  to fast track the completion of all ongoing projects in the constituency.”

Kano Council Chairman Appoints 60 Aides

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Chairman of Nassarawa Local Council Kano State Yusuf Imam

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

In a bizarre adventure that has sent many tongues waging, the Chairman of Nassarawa Local Council, Kano State, Yusuf Imam, has announced the appointments of no fewer than 60 aides in one fell swoop.

This is even as this Magazine gathered authoritatively that the remaining 43 Local Government Areas of the State will in the days ahead, toe similar path ahead of the great battle for the political soul of Kano in 2027.

The hordes of Special Assistants and others whose appointments were contained in a circular dated January 6,2025, and signed by the Council’s scribe, Hon. Ado Muhammad Hotoro, are to serve in different capacities across the Local Council.

According to the appointment circular, some of the offices to be filled include Special Assistants , Special Reporters , Directors-General and Personal Assistants .

The Chairman

noted that the appointees, largely selected based on merit, will drive his vision for the Council, as well as effective service delivery.

According to the letter which was made public on Tuesday, January 7, the appointees will also assist in the task of repositioning the administration architecture of the Local Government to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the people.

“Sequel to the efforts of the Honourable Chairman of Nassarawa Local Government to promote and develop the Local Government Area, I wish to convey the approval for the appointment of the following prominent individuals to various roles across different fields and professions ( 60 Aides ) .

“Some of the positions to be filled include that of the Special Assistant on Media and Chief protocol officer.

“However, impeccable sources have revealed that much as the development may have appeared  weird to many ,it fits into the wider plans of the ruling New Nigeria Peoples Party NNPP to tame the envisaged rampaging All Progressive Congress, APC, forces in 2027.

“This is a strategic survival plan Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf ,the NNPP and all the promoters of  the present administration in Kano State are in the picture of what have taken place at the Nassarawa Local Government.

“In fact, in less than no time, other Local Government Areas will follow. The only difference will be in the number of appointees.

“Nassarawa and the other seven metropolitan Local Government will be appointing between 60 and 70 aides owing to their dense population and huge electoral value .

“But the other 36 rural Local Councils will be going for between 40 and 50 appointees.

“The focus is the 2027 general elections,which  the NNPP, the ruling party ,believes will not be taken lightly by the APC in particular”, a source revealed.

LAHA Approves N3.4 Trn Budget For 2025

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Mudashiru Obasa

By Akinwale Kasali

The Lagos State House of Assembly has approved the sum of N3,366,815,224,144 as the total budget of the State for Year 2025.

The approval followed the presentation of a report on the budget by the Chairman of the Joint Committee on Appropriation and Finance, Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh, and the subsequent voice votes by lawmakers at a sitting presided over by the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa

The approved budget is made up of N1,295,630,197,452 as recurrent expenditure while N2,071,185,026,692  earmarked as capital expenditure for the year ending December 31, 2025.

Obasa, thereafter, directed the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to transmit a clean copy of the passed bill to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for assent.

The Speaker commended his colleagues for their painstaking efforts leading to the passage of the budget.

Governor Sanwo-Olu had on November 21, 2024 presented a proposal of N3.005 trillion to the House for approval.

The Governor, during the presentation, told the lawmakers that the budget has a deficit financing of N408,902 billion adding that the deficit would be financed from external and internal loans and bonds.

Meanwhile, the House, during plenary on Monday, also passed a bill to consolidate all laws on local government administration in Lagos State.

The bill further makes provisions based on constitutional amendments as well as amendments by the National Assembly which have direct effects on the local governments in Lagos State.

Fulani Herdsmen Will Lay Down Their Arms If

By
James Orji
-
0
Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Gumi with Bandits in the North

Controversial Islamic cleric Ahmad Gumi has applauded the decision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to set up Livestock Ministry.

The cleric bared his mind on Monday when a former Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung paid him a visit in his Kaduna home, stating that the ministry could address the security problems facing the country, arising from herders, farmers clashes.

Gumi, a major sympathizer of bandits and Fulani herdsmen have called for their pardon by the federal government.

Security experts insist that herdsmen and bandits are predominantly of the Fulani stockm and are currently responsible for the killings and banditry across the country, particularly in the northern part of the country where their criminal activities have become very notorious.

On Monday, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state raised an alarm that bandits are relocating from the country’s north west, and are now setting up camps in the state.

Describing the Livestock Ministry as a good initiative by the Tinubu administration, he said Fulani herdsmen could lay down their arms once they realised that their interests are being served.

He said the ‘psychology’ of the Fulani herders is that the society is against them, they push back by attacking those they consider their enemies including their Fulani brethren.

According to him, once the Fulanis realised that the government is serious about their development, they may stop attacking communities, a situation that could enhance security across the country.

He said, “The psychology of the herders is that all people living in the city are their enemies, including their fellow Fulanis, who suffer more of their cruelty when kidnapped.

“Because the Fulanis are marginalised in the share of infrastructure, under the livestock ministry, if they can see physical developments on the ground and the government is assisting them, I am assuming that they will lay down their arms.”

President Tinubu had last July announced the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, and later went ahead to appoint  Idi Mukhtar Maiha as the Minister to oversee the ministry.

Gov Makinde: Bandits From The North Have Set Up Camps In Oyo

By
James Orji
-
0
Bandits Leader Bello-Turji

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state says armed bandits from the Northern part of the country are now relocating to the state.

The governor said the criminals have now set up operating camps in Fashola area of the state.

Makinde spoke at 2025 Annual Inter-faith Service for State Workers, attended by top political functionaries and civil servants.

According to him, the bandits are trying to set up a base in the state, urging the people of the state to be very vigilant by reporting any suspicious movement.

The governor who spent his last annual vacation in Fashola, a farm settlement established by his administration stated that he was briefed by security agencies that the bandits camp were close to where he stayed.

He however assured the residents of the state of government to stamp out criminality, as his administration has ramp up security around various communities in the state.

Makinde said, “The year 2024 has been a challenging year, even in terms of safety and security. We had a few fire incidents, armed robberies, and kidnappings, but what I would say is that we will redouble our efforts in 2025. Some of these issues, we will tackle squarely.

“Even just this morning, during the security briefing, we received updates about a special operation currently underway. Quite a number of the wrongdoers from the major northwestern zone are relocating here. But we will locate them, and we will deal with them.

“Because of the stampede last year, I chose to go to Fashola, just to lay low for my birthday, and I can tell you that within less than perhaps one and a half kilometres from where I was sleeping, there were bandits with camps established there.”

The magazine reports that following the clamp down on the bandits by security agencies, many of them are now seeking refuge in other parts of the country to continue their criminals activities.

As part of their desperate efforts to survived the military onslaught against them,  some bandit leaders were reported to have formed alliance with the new terrorist group, Lukarawa who are also facing a crack-down from the armed forces and other security agencies.

1...919920921...3,076Page 920 of 3,076