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Ondo Settles N3.5 Billion UBEC Counterpart Funding, Set To Receive N70 Billion

September 27, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State government has approved a N3.5 billion counterpart fund for the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to support the construction and renovation of public primary schools across the state.

The decision was arrived at during the meeting of the State Executive Council, chaired by the Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Briefing journalists at the Governor’s Office on Friday, the Commissioner for Education, Mr. Olaolu Akindolire, announced that the approved counterpart fund paid to the UBEC, would fetch the state over N7billion for the construction and renovation of public schools across the three senatorial districts of the State.

Akindolire commended the governor for prioritizing education and achieving significant progress in the sector.

The Council expressed the state government’s sympathy to the people of Aiyetoro in Ilaje local government area, who have been impacted by recurring sea incursions.

It noted that the government had completed a technical review of the Aiyetoro shoreline protection project and would soon implement both temporary and long-term solutions to prevent further flooding.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Prof. Simidele Odimayo, announced the government’s satisfaction with the low incidence of Lassa fever in September, alongside zero cases of cholera and monkeypox.

He urged communities to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to maintain public health.

Prof. Odimayo also highlighted the upcoming “Project 10 Million,” a nationwide health initiative scheduled for next month, aimed at screening residents for hypertension and diabetes, two major causes of sudden death.

As part of ongoing healthcare improvements, the government has also approved the renovation of primary healthcare facilities in all 203 wards of the state.

The renovations will include security fencing, staff accommodation, solar power, and borehole installations to ensure the facilities are well-equipped and secured.

Bishop Oyedepo @70: “He Is Dedicated Servant In Lord’s Vineyard – Obi

The Source

September 27, 2024

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has described the General Overseer of the Living Faith Church, Bishop David. O. Oyedepo is an exceptional servant in God’s vineyard.

In a congratulatory message to the Bishop on his 70th Birthday anniversary today, Obi said the cleric exemplifies the true purpose of God’s creation.

Writing on his X handle, the former Anambra State Governor said Bishop Oyedepo has remained “A remarkable figure in faith, a dedicated servant in God’s vineyard, and a leader who exemplifies the true purpose of God’s creation.

“Your life continues to be a source of blessing, reflecting dedication, tireless work, and a commitment to God’s mission.

“Through your ministry, countless lives have been touched, embodying faith, hope, and love. Outstanding Institutions such as Living Faith Church, Covenant University, and Kingdom Heritage Model School stand as lasting testimonies to your pursuit of excellence.

“Today, we honour your enduring legacy, your compassionate outreach, and your immense contribution to humanity. May God continue to strengthen, guide, and bless you in all your endeavours.

“Thank you for being a beacon of God’s grace. Your remarkable journey will inspire generations to embrace faith, integrity, and purposeful living.

“May your continued intervention through prayer in the affairs of our country help us to find direction for a new Nigeria.

Southern Governors Forum Mourns, Describes Death Of Akwa Ibom First Lady As Tragic

Ayodele Oni

September 27, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

The Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF) has joined Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom to mourn the death of his wife, describing the death of Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno as sad and tragic.

The Akwa Ibom First Lady reportedly passed away on Thursday after a brief illness.

In a statement by the SGF Chairman, Governor Dapo Abiodun, who is also the Governor of Ogun State, the Forum described the late Pastor Eno as a remarkable woman who was the pillar behind her husband’s success in both the private and public sectors.

The statement said that the invaluable contributions of Mrs. Umo Eno would be greatly missed.

“We extend our deepest condolences to Governor Pastor Umo Eno on the tragic passing of his beloved wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno.

“A remarkable woman, Pastor Patience was not only a devoted partner to the Governor, but also a pillar of strength and inspiration to countless individuals in Akwa Ibom State in particular and Nigeria in general.

“Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno dedicated her life to serving others, embodying the values of compassion, faith, and resilience.

“Her tireless efforts in uplifting the less privileged and advocating for the welfare of women and children in Akwa Ibom State have left an indelible mark. She was a beacon of hope whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.

“In this time of profound grief, we stand in solidarity with Governor Umo Eno and the entire Umo Eno family. The loss of a cherished spouse is a pain that words cannot fully express.

“We encourage our friend and colleague, Governor Umo Eno, to find solace in the love and memories shared with Pastor Patience, as well as in the support of family, friends, and the people of Akwa Ibom State who mourn alongside him.”

Edo 2024: Atedo Peterside Asks Nigerians To Challenge Governorship Results

Adesina Soyooye

September 27, 2024

By Adesina Soyooye

One of Nigeria’s most accomplished bankers, Mr Atedo Peterside has asked all Nigeria’s who care for democracy to stand up and challenge the outcome of the September 21, Edo Governorship Election.

The much condemned Election has been described by not a few people as a sham. Over 22 Election Observer-groups have dismissed it as a no-no.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, had declared the Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Senator Monday Okpebholo winner of the exercise. To consolidate his victory, INEC on Thursday, presented him and his running mate, their Certificates of Return.

But two of the frontline Candidates, Dr. Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party, LP, have both rejected the outcome. While Ighodalo dismissed it as daylight robbery, insisting he won the election, Akpata dismissed it as bizarre.

However, Peterside, the founder of Stanbic IBTC and Anap Foundation, has raised the ante.

In a post he shared on his X account, he showed how results from IREV were manipulated, and urged “all right thinking Nigerians to challenge the outcome.”

The result declared by INEC showed that Okpebholo, the Senator who represents Edo Central in the Senate, won 11 out of 18 Local Government in the State.

But Peterside in his post says that from what was posted on IREV, the declared results were manipulated.

Ighodalo of the PDP won seven Local Government Areas with 247,274 while Labour Party (LP)’s Olumide Akpata came a distant third with just 22,763 votes.

But in four different results posted by Peterside, the APC won, garnering more votes than the number of voters accredited.

For instance, “in one of the manipulated results obtained from INEC Result Viewing Portal (IREV), 213 voters were accredited while the APC got 352 votes. 52 votes were recorded for the PDP in the polling unit located at Osholo Primary School, Osholo in Etsako East LGA.

“Another result from the same local government showed that the APC secured 377 votes, which is more than 275 accredited voters at the polling unit.

“Other results where APC won also showed 98.5% voter turnout at the polling units, despite 22.2% turnout recorded across the state on Election Day.”

In response, Peterside said, “Edo Governorship Elections; In sample Polling Unit results from @inecnigeria IREV shown below, @OfficialAPCNg recorded more votes than total no. of accredited voters or they achieved over 98.5% voter turnout versus a State-wide turnout of 22.2%. @Aighodalo @OfficialPDPNig & all right-thinking Nigerians must challenge this #EdoDecides2024″.

How Akwa Ibom First Lady Died

Adesina Soyooye

September 27, 2024

By Adesina Soyooye

After rumors and speculations, the wife of Akwa Ibom Governor, has finally passed on.

About a couple of months ago, the rumour mill was strong that the First Lady, Pastor Mrs Patience Umo Eno, had passed on. At the time, she was said to have died of Cancer. But the news was swiftly dismissed for what it was: False.

However, on Thursday, 26th September, 2024, the quiet First Lady calmly passed on at a yet-to- be disclosed hospital, surrounded by family.

Mrs Eno, a quiet philanthropist, was married to her beloved husband, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno for 33 years. The union was blessed with six children.

A statement signed by the State’s Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong, on behalf of the State Government, said the First Lady died after a brief illness surrounded by family.

Titled “Unexpected Sunset”, the statement reads:

“It is with heavy hearts that we (Akwa Ibom State Government), announce the passing of the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Mrs Patience Umo Eno, following an illness.

“She passed away peacefully at the hospital on 26th September, 2024, in the presence of her family. The family submits to the will of the Almighty and asks for the prayers and support of kind-hearted individuals during this difficult time.

“Further details will be provided by the family as necessary. In the meantime, the family kindly requests privacy as they mourn their beloved wife, mother and grandmother.

“His Excellency, the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, appreciates all who have stood by the first family in this period and assures all the citizens that despite this huge personal loss, his commitment to the service of the State is unwavering”.

The late First Lady was aged 57 years.

NBA Tackles Nigeria Prison Service, Asks For Details Of Where Bobrisky’s Served His Jail Term

Akinwale Kasali

September 26, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

Bobrisky threatens to end his life over controversy

As controversy continues to trail Idris Okuneye, popular as Bobrisky’s Jail Term saga, the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, has challenged the Nigeria Prison Service. NPS, to provide details of where the Cross Dresser served his jail term for abusing the Naira.

The NBA demanded that the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, provide transparent details of where the crossdresser served his conviction sentence.

Afam Osigwe, NBA President, in a statement demanded an independent investigation by the office of the National Security Adviser, NSA, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, to determine if Bobrisky bribed personnel of EFCC and NCoS to serve his jail terms outside the Correctional Center.

Osigwe also advised the public to refrain from linking Femi Falana and his son, Folarin Falana, known by his stage name Falz, to the Bobrisky case.

The statement reads: “The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) commends the timely decision of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to launch an investigation into allegations that some of its officers received ₦15 million from Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, to dismiss money laundering charges against him.

“The allegation of bribery to reduce or drop charges is very disturbing. An urgent and thorough investigation is needed to determine whether bribes were paid or are sometimes paid to influence the nature of charges brought against defendants in criminal cases. This investigation will also test the transparency of the investigative process and the procedures for charging defendants in court.

“The investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should determine whether or not there was any financial inducement by Bobrisky or anyone on his behalf in exchange for the dropping of money laundering charges against him. Any person found complicit must face the full weight of the law.

“The NBA acknowledges that all individuals and institutions accused are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. However, we insist that a swift and thorough investigation be carried out to establish the truth. If any public official is found culpable, appropriate legal actions must be taken to hold them accountable.

“The NBA therefore demands that the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) not only respond to the allegation that Bobrisky did not serve his time in a correctional facility but also provide transparent details on the conditions under which Bobrisky served his sentence. If it is proven that he was allowed to serve his sentence outside a Correctional Facility, in breach of the law and a court order, the officers and officials responsible must be prosecuted and dismissed from service.

“We also call upon the Attorney General of the Federation, EFCC, and the Office of the National Security Adviser to independently investigate allegations that a convict paid a bribe to be allowed to serve prison time in a private residence instead of in a Correctional Facility, as well as the allegation that a bribe was demanded in exchange for a government pardon. The suggestion that convicts can freely serve their time in private residences and potentially procure a pardon by paying a bribe undermines the very foundation of our criminal justice system and erodes public confidence in the system.

“We believe that this investigation will provide the individuals named in these allegations the opportunity to clarify their roles (if any) in this matter. If these allegations are found to be true, it would not only mock our correctional system but also serve as a wake-up call for necessary reforms in our prosecutorial and correctional processes. The NBA shall appoint eminent members of the legal profession to monitor this situation and ensure that due process is followed.”

It continued, “The NBA is especially concerned with the allegation involving one of Nigeria’s foremost legal luminaries, Femi Falana, SAN, and his son, Folarin Falana, Esq. (aka FALZ). The video claims that Mr. Folarin Falana reached out to Bobrisky, and his father, Femi Falana, SAN, allegedly discussed the possibility of applying for a presidential pardon for Bobrisky. We note that Femi Falana, SAN, has denied this allegation.

“It is important to note that the law allows convicts to apply for a presidential pardon under Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). This provision empowers the President to grant pardons to individuals convicted of offenses, subject to certain conditions and upon the recommendation of the Council of State.

“The NBA acknowledges that applying for a presidential pardon is a legitimate legal recourse available to any convict, as stipulated by law. However, it is crucial to clarify that such a process must follow due procedure and be devoid of any form of influence peddling or unethical practices.

“Femi Falana, SAN, is a highly respected legal practitioner known for his integrity and long-standing commitment to human rights and justice. He has in fact denied the allegation against him. The Nigerian Bar Association urges the public to refrain from making premature conclusions regarding Mr. Falana’s or indeed any person’s alleged involvement in these matters.

“The Nigeria Bar Association reiterates its commitment to upholding justice, fairness, and the rule of law. We will continue to support all efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in our prosecutorial, law enforcement, and correctional systems. We also call for calm and restraint while investigations are carried out, and we assure the public that we will monitor these investigations closely to ensure they are conducted in a transparent and unbiased manner.”

However, Bobrisky, has threatened to end his life amid the ongoing investigation into his alleged N15 million bribe to operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, as well as his staying in an apartment to serve his Jail term.

In a statement on his verified Instagram page on Thursday, he said he was ready to end his life by committing suicide, alleging that “people” are trying to “bring him down.”

Bobrisky: NCoS Suspends Senior Officers Over Bribery Allegation

Ayodele Oni

September 26, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Nigerian Correctional Service, (NCoS) has approved the suspension of three top officials of the service allegedly linked to allegation of receiving bribe.

They were said to be connected to allegation of receiving bribe from Mr. Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, while serving a jail term.

A statement on Thursday by Ja’afaru Ahmed, Secretary to the

Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board announced the suspension in a statement.

Minister of interior, Tunji-Ojo had on Wednesday announced setting up of an investigative panel to find out those connected with bribery allegation of the transgender.

The statement said “Following the viral video trending on social media on alleged infractions by Officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service relating to Mr. Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board has suspended forthwith the following Senior Officers of the Service:

“Michael Anugwa, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), In-Charge of Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kiri-kiri, Lagos State; and

Sikiru Adekunle, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), In-Charge of Maximum-Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kiri-kiri, Lagos State”

The board also disciplined other officers for various offences bordering on indiscipline.

“Also, the Board has suspended ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna, serving at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Afikpo, Ebonyi State, for allegedly accompanying a convicted inmate out of the Custodial Centre to a location outside the facility.

“In another related development, the Board has equally suspended another Senior Officer of the Service, Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), In-Charge of Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kuje- Abuja, for allegedly receiving monies on behalf of an inmate.

“The suspension of these Officers is to allow for further investigation on the various allegations while assuring that the outcome would be made public when concluded.”

SW Senators Applaud Passage Of Development Commission Bill

Ayodele Oni

September 26, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

The South West Senators Caucus has noted that the passage of the South West Development Commission Bill has further demonstrate the collaborative efforts among senators from the zone.

The regional commission’s bill was passed into law on Thursday by the red chamber.

A statement by secretary of the caucus, Shuaibu Salisu expressed appreciation to members of the Caucus over the passage of the Bill at the Plenary Session on Thursday.

In a statement issued in Abuja the Secretary, of the Caucus enthused that the bill, a collaborative effort of all the Senators from the South West Zone, is yet another demonstration of a shared vision and commitment of the Senators to advance and protect the interests of the Zone at all times, within the context of a united, secure and prosperous Nigeria.

“The South West Development Commission, the principal objective of the Bill, will complement the development efforts of the six States in South West and in particular boost the Development Agenda of South West Nigeria (DAWN), a joint initiative of the South West States.

“Whilst noting that the Bill still has to receive the concurrence of the House of Representatives to be ready for the Presidential Assent, the Caucus notes with confidence that the Honourable Members from the South West Zone are equally committed to this initiative and will work collaboratively, as is done in the Senate, to ensure easy and expeditious passage in the House.

“The Caucus thanks the leadership of the National Assembly, particularly the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, for their leadership and facilitation of the passage of the Bill.

“We note and thank all the National Assembly members, past and serving, from the zone who have made efforts at various times that have now culminated in the passage of this Bill in the 10th Assembly.

“As members of the 10th Senate, we are proud of this milestone. We want to reassure all the stakeholders that the South West Caucus in the National Assembly remains unwaveringly committed to the full realization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the benefit of all Nigerians, including our beloved South West Zone.”

Edo Election: “A Professor Told Me He Came To Cash Out” – Weeping Prince Odigie

Adesina Soyooye

September 26, 2024

By Adesina Soyooye

A prominent son of Edo State, Prince Emmanuel Odigie, in what one could describe as embarrassing, broke down in tears on an international television.

The Prince who was a guest on Arise Television’s very popular program, The Morning Show, to discuss the outcome of the September 21, 2024, Governorship Election, was so engulfed in emotion that he, suddenly, broke down in tears, and cried. It was the lot of one of the presenters of the program, Rufai Oseni, to console him by telling him “don’t cry, don’t cry.”

Prince Odigie had strongly rooted for Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. In fact, a few days before the election, he was also a guest at The Morning Show where he confidently emphasized that Ighodalo’s victory was a done deal. He did not see the possibility of a Monday Okpebholo victory. As for an Olumide Akpata victory, he dismissed it with a wave of the hand.

It was, therefore, a devastated, numb and absolutely shocked Prince Odigie who returned to Arise Television, post- election, to analyze the outcome.

He began by telling his interviewers that he was in deep mourning. Proof: He drew their attention to his choice of appearance – head to toe. He appeared in all black, and emphasized he did so to mourn the outcome of the election, the death of democracy in Nigeria, the death of everything decent in Nigeria, and the take-over of the country by evil.

Instructively, Odigie had wept earlier before the Arise Television incident. He told Arise Television after informing them why he wore all black, that he had cried before four women.

He said that the four returned from the United States of America, USA, where they live, just to vote for Ighodalo. He said he wept when the women told him that they had never witnessed such electoral robbery before; that they were ashamed of their country, and because of what they witnessed, they would never return to Nigeria again.

In tears, Prince Odigie insisted there was no way Okpebholo and his APC could have won any election in Edo State. He said neither the Civil Servants, Teachers, Market women and men, artisans, students nor the youths could have voted for the APC.

He revealed that most of those who worked for the INEC and Security Agents connived to scandalously shame the Country.

Proof: He disclosed that he was in shock, and knew that the Country was finished when a University Professor who came to Edo for Election duties told him: “I came here to cash out.”

The September 21 Governorship Election has been bedevilled by controversy and scandalous complaints all of which have put a big question mark on the outcome of the exercise.

South West Development Commission Scales Hurdle As Senate Passes Bill

Ayodele Oni

September 26, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

As it did to other zonal development driven interventions, the Senate on Thursday approved the establishment of the South West Development Commission following consideration of a report by its Committee on Special Duties.

Chairman of the committee, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan (APC Borno Central) presented the South West Development Commission Bill, 2024, after which it was passed for third reading by the Senate during plenary.

Kaka, in his presentation, explained that the intents and purposes of the bill are well structured for the socio-economic development of South West.

“If the Commission is established through presidential assent to the bill, it will, like other development-driven commissions established on zonal basis, receives funds from the Federation Account, donations from development partners etc to address infrastructural deficits and tackle ecological problems in the region.”

The Senate, accordingly moved into committee of the whole for clause by clause consideration of the bill after which it was read for the third time.

In his remarks after the passage of the bill, the Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, commended the Kaka-led committee for a job well done.

According to him, the South West Development Commission, like other ones recently established, would address the infrastructural and ecological challenges in the South West.

“The essence of the various development commissions being set up is to fast track development of the entire country.

“President Bola Tinubu has assented to similar bills passed for zonal development-driven interventions and will surely assent to this one.”

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Bobrisky threatens to end his life over controversy